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November 22, 2009
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GENERIC NAME: METHYLDOPA INJECTION (meth-ill-DOPE-uh)

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: Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to use it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue using this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop using 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. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, depression, severe stomach cramps, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes, rash. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe 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 drowsy/dizzy effects of this drug. 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 reports (to date) 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 injection

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 »



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