Aldomet (Methyldopa) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 23, 2012

Aldomet

Raynaud's Phenomenon »

What is Raynaud's phenomenon?

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a condition resulting in a particular series of discolorations of the fingers and/or the toes after exposure to changes in temperature (cold or hot) or emotional events. Skin discoloration occurs because an abnormal spasm of the blood vessels causes a diminished blood supply to the local tissues. Initially, the digit(s) involved turn white because of the diminished blood supply. The digit(s) then turn blue because of prolonged lack of oxygen. Finally, the blood vessels reopen, causing a local "flushing" phenomenon, which turns the digit(s) red. This three-phase color sequence (white to blue to red), most often upon exposure to cold temperature, is characteristic of RP.

Raynaud's phenomenon most frequently affects women, especially in the second, third, or fourth decades of life. People can have Raynauds phenomenon alone or as a part of other rheumatic diseases. When it occurs alone...

Read the Raynaud's Phenomenon article »

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Aldomet User Reviews >>

Aldomet

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Slideshow

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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

Aldomet Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

METHYLDOPA - ORAL

(METH-il-DOE-pa)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aldomet

USES: This medication is used alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. Methyldopa blocks certain natural chemicals (e.g., epinephrine, norepinephrine) that can raise your blood pressure.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Usually this medication is started at a low dose and increased slowly to the best dose for you. It may take several weeks for your doctor to determine the best dosage for controlling your blood pressure.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medication when you start or stop using other blood pressure medications.

To avoid injury related to dizziness or fainting, take your first dose at bedtime. Also, anytime the dosage of this drug is changed, take your first new dose at bedtime.

Learn how to monitor your blood pressure while taking this medication. This will help you and your doctor make sure the medication is working well.

When this medication is used for an extended time, it may not work as well, and you may need a higher dose or a different medication. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well (e.g., your blood pressure readings increase).