Methyldopa belongs to the general class of medicines called antihypertensives. It is used to treat high blood pressure
Aldomet® is an antihypertensive. Methyldopa affects nerve centers in the brain that control blood vessels. As blood vessels relax, methyldopa relieves high blood pressure (hypertension).
Aldomet Dosage
*For adults, the usual starting dose is 250 milligrams, 2 or 3 times per day
*For children, the usual starting dose is 10 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight daily.
Uses of Aldomet
*Try to take it at the same time each day. The tablets may be taken with food or milk to avoid stomach irritation. 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.
*It is used to treats infection that may be cause blood vessels.
*It may also be used to treats other medical conditions those are listed in this medication guide.
Side Effects of Aldomet
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Aldomet.
More common side effects may include:
o Drowsiness during the first few weeks of therapy
o Fluid retention or weight gain
o Headache
o Weakness
Warnings and precautions before taking Aldomet:
*Before you begin taking Aldomet, your doctor should perform a complete study of your liver function, and it should be monitored periodically thereafter.
*If you are taking prescription and nonprescription medications especially haloperidol, levodopa, lithium, other medications for high blood pressure, tolbutamide, and vitamins, then you should tell your doctor.
*You should tell you doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
*If you have a history of liver disease, this medication should be used with caution.
*If you are having surgery, such as dental surgery, then you should tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking methyldopa.
Drug Interaction :-
If Aldomet is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aldomet with the following:
*Antidepressants known as MAO inhibitors, including Nardil and Parnate
*Dextroamphetamine
*Tofranil
*Iron-containing products such as Ferrous sulfate and Ferrous gluconate (Fergon)
*Lithium
Other blood pressure medications such as Catapres and Calan
*Phenylpropanolamine
*Propranolol (Inderal)
*Tolbutamide (Orinase)
Overdose
After taken Aldomet if you feel that overdose is suspected, then you should contact with your doctor immediately. Because it may lead to another serious effect. Symptoms of a Aldomet overdose include:
*Bloating
*Constipation
*Diarrhea
*Extreme drowsiness
*Gas
*Light-headedness
*Nausea
*Severely low blood pressure
*Vomiting
*Weakness
By: ashu