Methyldopa
Brand: Aldomet (US/EU) / Dopamet (IN) / Methyldop (BD)
Antihypertensive
Centrally acting α₂-adrenergic agonist (Prodrug)
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 2 hours |
| Tmax | 3 h |
| Bioavailability | 25 % (approx) |
| Protein Binding | 50 % |
| Volume of Distribution | 1.2 L/kg (approx) |
| Clearance Route | renal |
| Active Metabolites | yes |
| Notes | Extensively metabolized in liver; excreted primarily in urine; onset slow (4–6 h); duration up to 24 h; effective in pregnancy-induced hypertension. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Moderate
Adverse Effects:
Sedation, dry mouth, fatigue, hemolytic anemia, hepatic dysfunction
Contraindications:
Active hepatic disease, MAO inhibitor therapy
Precautions:
Monitor liver function and CBC; caution in elderly due to sedation and orthostatic hypotension