Methyldopa for chronic hypertension during pregnancy
Content provided by Healthwise
Examples
| Generic Name |
| methyldopa |
Methyldopa reduces high blood pressure (hypertension). It is given as tablets or liquid (orally) or through a vein (intravenously, or IV).
How It Works
Methyldopa affects the nerves that relax the walls of blood vessels, causing the blood vessels to widen (dilate) and thus reducing blood pressure.
Why It Is Used
Methyldopa is used to help control blood pressure in chronic hypertension during pregnancy. Other medicines may be added for blood pressure control, if needed.
Methyldopa is not used in women who have liver or kidney disease.
How Well It Works
Methyldopa is usually effective for the control of chronic hypertension during pregnancy.1
Side Effects
The side effects of methyldopa are usually mild and may include:
- Sleepiness.
- Dry mouth.
- Weakness when treatment first begins.
- Low blood pressure.
- Swelling of the feet and legs and weight gain caused by fluid retention (edema).
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia).
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Constipation.
- Diarrhea.
- Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
- Blood abnormalities (rare).
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Methyldopa is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Methyldopa is most often used in its oral form for the treatment of high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Methyldopa does not begin lowering blood pressure until 4 to 6 hours after it is taken. So it is not a good choice when blood pressure needs to be lowered quickly.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
References
Citations
Magee LA (2001). Antihypertensives. Best Practice and Research: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 15(6): 827–845.
Credits
| Author | Sandy Jocoy, RN |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Updated | November 14, 2008 |
| Last updated: | November 14, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sandy Jocoy, RN |
| Reviewed By: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine, Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
