Drug reference
methyldopa
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Cardiovascular (Alpha-2 Agonist)
Mechanism of action
Methyldopa may lower blood pressure by stimulating central inhibitory alpha-adrenergic receptors, false neurotransmission, and/or reduction of plasma renin activity.
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Bradycardia
- Angina
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Lethargy
- Depression
Contraindications
- Active liver disease, liver disorders associated with previous methyldopa treatment Hypersensitivity to methyldopa or other ingredients (eg, sulfites) Pheochromocytoma Concomitant MAOIs
Known interactions (8)
- aripiprazole + methyldopa Moderate
- bisoprolol + methyldopa Moderate
- chlorpromazine + methyldopa Moderate
- clozapine + methyldopa Moderate
- doxazosin + methyldopa Moderate
- fluphenazine + methyldopa Moderate
- furosemide + methyldopa Moderate
- haloperidol + methyldopa Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is methyldopa?
methyldopa belongs to: Cardiovascular.
How does methyldopa work?
Methyldopa may lower blood pressure by stimulating central inhibitory alpha-adrenergic receptors, false neurotransmission, and/or reduction of plasma renin activity.
What are the common side effects of methyldopa?
Dizziness, Bradycardia, Angina, Orthostatic hypotension, Lethargy, Depression
Which drugs interact with methyldopa?
aripiprazole, bisoprolol, chlorpromazine, clozapine, doxazosin, fluphenazine, furosemide, haloperidol
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
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