home > drugs a-z list > aldomet (methyldopa) drug center > aldomet (methyldopa) drug

Recommended Topic Related To:

Aldomet

High Blood Pressure »

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure (HBP) or hypertension means high pressure (tension) in the arteries. Arteries are vessels that carry blood from the pumping heart to all the tissues and organs of the body. High blood pressure does not mean excessive emotional tension, although emotional tension and stress can temporarily increase blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80; blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 is called "pre-hypertension", and a blood pressure of 140/90 or above is considered high.

The top number, the systolic blood pressure, corresponds to the pressure in the arteries as the heart contracts and pumps blood forward into the arteries. The bottom number, the diastolic pressure, represents the pressure in the arteries as the heart relaxes after the contraction. The diastolic pressure reflects the lowest pressure to which the arteries are exposed.

An elevation of the systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure increas...

Read the High Blood Pressure article »

Aldomet

font size
Discontinued Warning IconPlease Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

ALDOMET®

(METHYLDOPA) TABLETS

DRUG DESCRIPTION

ALDOMET* (Methyldopa) is an antihypertensive drug.

Methyldopa, the L-isomer of alpha-methyldopa, is levo-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-methylalanine. Its empirical formula is C10H13NO4, with a molecular weight of 211.22, and its structural formula is:

Methyldopa is a white to yellowish white, odorless fine powder, and is soluble in water.

ALDOMET (methyldopa) is supplied as tablets, for oral use, in three strengths: 125 mg, 250 mg, or 500 mg of methyldopa per tablet. Inactive ingredients in the tablets are: calcium disodium edetate, cellulose, citric acid, colloidal silicon dioxide, D&C Yellow 10, ethylcellulose, guar gum, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, magnesium stearate, propylene glycol, talc, and titanium dioxide.

*Registered trademark of MERCK & CO., Inc., COPYRIGHT © MERCK & CO., Inc., 1985 All rights reserved

What are the possible side effects of methyldopa (Aldomet)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking methyldopa and seek emergency medical attention:

  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
  • a very slow heart rate (fewer than 60 beats per minute);
  • unusually high or low blood pressure (fainting, a severe headache, flushing of your face);
  • chest pain;
  • uncontrollable movements of your arms, legs, or facial muscles;
  • yellowing of...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Aldomet »

What are the precautions when taking methyldopa (Aldomet)?

Before taking methyldopa, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: liver disease (e.g., hepatitis or cirrhosis), a history of liver disease caused by medications.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: low red blood cell count (e.g., hemolytic anemia), certain genetic conditions (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency), heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease,...

Read All Potential Precautions of Aldomet »

Last reviewed on RxList: 1/31/2005
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Additional Aldomet Information

Aldomet - User Reviews

Aldomet User Reviews

Now you can gain knowledge and insight about a drug treatment with Patient Discussions.

Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Aldomet sorted by most helpful. Patient Discussions FAQs

See User Reviews

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


Privacy Policy

Hypertension

Get tips on handling your hypertension.


From WebMD

Heart Health Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors