methyldopa-oral (cont.)
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the drugs you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: lithium, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline), levodopa, medication for depression, iron supplements, any other blood pressure drugs. Consult your pharmacist or doctor before taking any drugs that increase your heart rate, such as decongestants often found in nonprescription cough-and-cold products: phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine. Caffeine may increase your blood pressure. Caffeine can be found in nonprescription diet medications, in colas, coffee or tea. Limit caffeine intake. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, slowed heart rate, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
NOTES: It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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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