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GENERIC NAME: METHYLDOPA - ORAL (meth-ill-DOPE-uh)

BRAND NAME(S): Aldomet

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This drug is used for high blood pressure (hypertension).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time(s) 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.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, gas, dry mouth, fatigue, and stomach upset may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, difficulty breathing, depression, severe stomach cramps, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes, rash. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, any allergies. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Alcohol may increase the dizziness/drowsiness effects of this medication. Limit alcohol intake. Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Methyldopa is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no recent reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.




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.


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methyldopa-oral, Aldomet

What is a prolactinoma (pituitary tumor)?

A prolactinoma is a benign tumor (called an adenoma) of the pituitary gland. A prolactinoma produces an excessive amount of the hormone prolactin. Prolactin is a natural hormone which supports a woman's normal lactation (breastfeeding). Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary tumor. Symptoms of prolactinoma are caused by pressure of the tumor on surrounding tissues or by excessive release of prolactin from the tumor into the blood (causing a condition known as hyperprolactinemia).

What is the normal function of prolactin?

Prolactin stimulates the breast tissues to enlarge during pregnancy. After delivery of the baby, the mother's prolactin level falls unless she breastfeeds her infant. Each time the baby nurses from the breasts, prolactin levels rise to maintain milk production.

What is the pituitary gland?

Sometimes called the master gland, the ...

Read the Prolactinoma (Pituitary Tumor) article »



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