Methyldopa Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (meth-ill-DOPE-uh)
Methyldopa Oral Uses
This medication is used alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. Methyldopa blocks certain natural chemicals (e.g., epinephrine, norepinephrine) that can raise your blood pressure.
How To Use Methyldopa Oral
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
Usually this medication is started at a low dose and increased slowly to the best dose for you. It may take several weeks for your doctor to determine the best dosage for controlling your blood pressure.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
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. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medication when you start or stop using other blood pressure medications.
To avoid injury related to dizziness or fainting, take your first dose at bedtime. Also, anytime the dosage of this drug is changed, take your first new dose at bedtime.
Learn how to monitor your blood pressure while taking this medication. This will help you and your doctor make sure the medication is working well.
When this medication is used for an extended time, it may not work as well, and you may need a higher dose or a different medication. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well (e.g., your blood pressure readings increase).
