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methyldopa injection

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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.

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, antidepressants, iron supplements, other blood pressure drugs. Avoid any drugs that increase your heart rate (decongestants phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine are examples). These drugs are commonly found in cough-and-cold products. Consult your pharmacist or doctor before using cough-and-cold products. Caffeine may also increase your blood pressure. Caffeine can be found in some nonprescription diet medications, in colas, coffee and tea. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.