Precautions to be kept in mind while using Methylodopa
by Robert Baird
Type of Drug
Drug used to lower high blood pressure.
How the Methylodopa Product Works
Methyldopa lowers blood pressure by relaxing and dilating (widening) blood vessels. Blood flows more freely at a lower pressure.
Uses of The Methylodopa
Precautions
To treat high blood pressure alone or in conjunction with other blood pressure lowering drugs.
Pregnancy:
Tablets, oral suspens
ion - Studies in pregnant women have not shown a risk to the fetus. However, no drug should be used during pregnant unless clearly needed. Injection - Adequate studies have not been done in pregnant women or animal studies may have shown a risk to the fetus. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.
Breastfeeding: Methyldopa appears in breast milk. Contact your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.
Elderly: Dizziness and lightheadedness in older patients may ho related to an increased sensitivity and to the patient's physical condition .Lower doses may need to be prescribed.
Lab Tests: Lab tests may be required to monitor treatment .tests may include coombs test .liver function tests hemoglobin,heamtocrit and red cell counts ,Be sure to keep appoints .
Sulfites: The oral suspension and injection contain sulfite preservatives which can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals (eg, asthmatics).
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking this medicine. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed.
The following drugs and drug classes interact with this medicine:
Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital)
Beta blockers (eg, propranolol)
Haloperidol (eg, Haldol)
Levodopa (eg, Larodopa)
Lithium (eg, Eskalith)
MAO's (eg, phenelzine)
Phenothiazines (eg, trifluoperazine)
Sulfonylureas (eg, tolbutamide)
Sympathomimetics (eg, ephedrine)
Tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline)
Side Effects
Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many patients experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. possible side effects include:
Digestive Tract: Nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; gas; colitis; bloating; dry mouth; inflammation of salivary glands; sore or black tongue; weight gain; mouth sores; stomach pain.
Nervous System: Dizziness; weakness; lightheadedness; drowsiness; headache; depression; decreased concentration; nightmares; tingling or numbness; unusual body movements; fainting.
Circulatory System: Slow heart rate; chest pain; congestive heart failure.
Respiratory System: Nasal congestion; sore throat; difficulty breathing.
Skin: Rash; yellowing of skin or eyes; easy bruising or bleeding.
Guidelines for Use
Take exactly as prescribed.
Usual adult dose of tablets and suspension is 500 mg to 2 g in two to four divided daily doses.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication daily as directed, have your blood pressure checked regularly and keep your appointments with your doctor even if you feel well. Most patients with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. If your doctor discontinues this drug, the dose must be gradually reduced over 2 to 4 days in order to avoid a rapid increase in blood pressure.
Patients being treated for high blood pressure often feel tired or rundown for a few weeks after beginning therapy. Continue taking your medication even though you may not feel quite "normal." Contact your doctor or pharmacist about any new symptoms.
Dizziness or lightheadedness may Occur if you stand up too fast from a lying or sitting position. If this Occurs, get up slowly and avoid sudden changes in posture.
This medicine may cause drowsiness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination or physical dexterity.
Avoid alcohol and other mental depressants (eg, tranquilizers) while you are taking this medicine. They may cause excessive drowsiness.
Notify your doctor if prolonged general tiredness, edema (fluid retention), shortness of breath, involuntary movements, fever, mouth sores, sore throat or yellowing of skin or eyes occurs.
Tolerance may Occur, usually between the second or third month of, therapy. Your doctor may increase the dosage of methyldopa or add a diuretic (water pill).
When urine is exposed to air, it may darken. This is not a problem.
Injection - Usual adult dose is 250 to 500 mg every 6 hours.
About the Author
Robert Baird, author for http://www.drug-facts.net/ explains all the uses and side effects of using drugs and various other types of drugs like blood modifiers and central nervous system agents.