Aldomet 250mg Tablet (Methyldopa) x100

Aldomet 250mg Tablet contains Methyldopa, a centrally-acting antihypertensive medication. This drug effectively reduces blood pressure and is particularly preferred for treating hypertension during pregnancy due to its established safety profile.

Uses

Aldomet treats essential hypertension and pregnancy-induced high blood pressure. It’s commonly prescribed for gestational hypertension, preeclampsia prevention, and chronic hypertension in pregnant women. Aldomet is also used when other antihypertensive medications are contraindicated or ineffective.

Benefits

• Effectively reduces high blood pressure
• Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Reduces risk of stroke and heart complications
• Helps prevent preeclampsia in pregnant women
• Compatible with most other medications
• Does not affect fetal development adversely
• Reduces maternal and fetal cardiovascular risks
• Well-established safety profile over decades
• Can be used in patients with kidney disease

How It Works

Aldomet works by being converted to alpha-methylnorepinephrine in the brain, which stimulates central alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. This action reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, decreasing heart rate and peripheral vascular resistance, ultimately lowering blood pressure through central mechanisms.

Dosage

Take Aldomet with or without food. Dosage should be gradually increased every 2-3 days based on blood pressure response.

Duration of Action

Aldomet begins working within 4-6 hours of administration, with peak effects occurring at 4-8 hours. The antihypertensive effect lasts 12-24 hours, requiring 2-3 daily doses. Full therapeutic benefits may take 2-3 days to develop with regular dosing.

Side Effects

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue. Some patients experience headache, nasal congestion, or mild depression. Less common effects include fluid retention, weight gain, or gastrointestinal upset. Rare but serious effects include liver problems or hemolytic anemia.

Warning

Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and blood counts during Aldomet therapy. Discontinue immediately if signs of liver toxicity or hemolytic anemia develop. May cause severe drowsiness, especially when starting treatment. Avoid sudden discontinuation as it may cause rebound hypertension.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Aldomet is considered first-line treatment for hypertension during pregnancy due to its excellent safety record. It’s safe throughout all trimesters and compatible with breastfeeding. Regular monitoring of maternal blood pressure and fetal well-being is recommended during treatment.

Interaction

• May enhance effects of other antihypertensive medications
• Possible increased sedation with alcohol or CNS depressants
• May interact with MAO inhibitors causing hypertensive crisis
• Iron supplements may reduce absorption of Aldomet
• Lithium levels may be increased when used concurrently

Precaution

Use cautiously in patients with liver disease, kidney impairment, or depression. Monitor blood pressure regularly, especially when starting or adjusting doses. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to sedative effects. Avoid activities requiring alertness until response is known.

Important Information

Aldomet requires regular monitoring of blood pressure, liver function, and blood counts. Take at the same times each day for consistent blood pressure control. Do not stop taking suddenly without medical supervision. Store at room temperature in original container. This medication may cause positive Coombs test results.