Methyldopa

Aldomet

Aldomet (methyldopa) is a trusted FDA-approved medication for managing hypertension, effectively reducing blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. It is suitable for adults and neonates and offers flexible dosing options in both injectable and tablet forms. With a favorable safety profile, Aldomet is especially beneficial for patients seeking a well-tolerated treatment. When used under medical supervision, it provides reliable blood pressure control, contributing to cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of hypertension-related complications.

Product Overview

Aldomet (methyldopa) is an FDA-approved medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is available in injectable solution (50mg/ml) and tablet form (250mg and 500mg). Adults typically start with a dose of 250 mg orally every 8-12 hours, which can be adjusted based on response. For hypertensive crises, the dosage may be higher. Dosage adjustments are also recommended for those with renal impairment.

In treating hypertension, the usual dosage is 2.5-5 mg/kg orally or intravenously every 8 hours. It is essential to take Aldomet as prescribed, at the exact times each day, and continue taking it even if you feel well. Aldomet works by stimulating the central nervous system to reduce the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to relaxed blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Common side effects include lightheadedness, drowsiness, and headaches.

Patients with a history of liver disease or dysfunction should use Aldomet with caution. During treatment, it is also essential to monitor for signs of hemolytic anemia and liver disorders. This medication should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children and pets. Patients with active liver diseases should not use it, those allergic to its components, or those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

What Are the Uses of Aldomet?

• Used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Aldomet?

Dosage

Strengths and Forms

Injectable solution

• 50mg/ml

Tablet

• 250mg
• 500mg

What Are the Recommended Aldomet Doses for Different Patients?

Adult

For hypertension:

• Initially, take 250 mg orally every 8-12 hours for 2 days, then increase as needed every 2 days.
• For maintenance, take 250-1000 mg per day orally, divided into doses every 6-12 hours, usually not exceeding 3 g per day.
• For IV administration (methyldopate), infuse 250-1000 mg over 30-60 minutes every 6-8 hours as needed, not exceeding 4 g per day.

For hypertensive crisis:

• Administer 20-40 mg/kg per day intravenously, divided into doses every 6 hours.
• Do not exceed 65 mg/kg per day or 3 g per day, whichever is less.

For renal impairment:

• Adjust the dosage frequency based on renal function.
• If creatinine clearance (CrCl) exceeds 50 ml/min, administer every 8 hours.
• If CrCl is 10-50 ml/min, allocate every 8-12 hours.
• If CrCl is less than 10 ml/min, administer every 12-24 hours.

Pediatric

For hypertension in neonates:

• Administer 2.5-5 mg/kg orally or intravenously every 8 hours.
• Start with 10 mg/kg per day orally, divided into doses every 12 hours, and increase as needed every 2 days.

For hypertensive crisis:

• Administer 20-40 mg/kg intravenously daily, divided into doses every 6 hours.
• Do not exceed 65 mg/kg per day or 3 g per day, whichever is less.

Geriatric

For hypertension:

• Lower initial doses and more gradual adjustments are recommended.
• Start with 125 mg once daily or every 12 hours. The dose may be increased by increments of 125 mg every 2-3 days as needed.

[Note: Remember these recommendations may vary depending on person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they will customize your dosage accordingly.]

How Do You Take Aldomet?

Follow these instructions to take Aldomet (methyldopa):

• Take this medication orally, with or without food.
• Typically, it is taken 2 to 4 times daily.
• Begin this medication or any increase in dosage in the evening to reduce the risk of side effects.
• If the doses are unequal, take the larger dose at bedtime.
• The dosage depends on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.
• Take this medication consistently for the best results.
• To aid in remembering, take it at the same time each day.
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Aldomet Work?

Aldomet (methyldopa) works by stimulating the central nervous system to produce alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which in turn reduce the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. This leads to a decrease in the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter responsible for increasing blood pressure. As a result, blood vessels relax and dilate, leading to a reduction in blood pressure. methyldopa also acts directly on the blood vessels, causing them to relax and further lowering blood pressure.

Important Safety Information

What Are the Side Effects of Aldomet?

Common Side Effects of Aldomet: When you buy Aldomet online, you should consider the side effects associated with this. Some side effects may arise when using this medication, particularly during the initial phase or after a dosage increase. Here are some common side effects of Aldomet:

• Lightheadedness: This is a common side effect when starting Aldomet, especially when rising from a sitting or lying position. This can be a result of a sudden drop in blood pressure. The sensation may last for a few seconds and can increase your risk of falling. It’s important to stand up slowly to reduce the chance of lightheadedness. This side effect tends to be more prominent when first taking Aldomet or after dosage changes but often improves as your body gets used to the medication.
• Drowsiness: Aldomet can make you feel drowsy, particularly in the initial days of starting the medication or after increasing your dose. This drowsiness may affect your ability to focus and perform daily activities, especially tasks that require alertness, like driving or operating machinery. The feeling of excessive tiredness is usually temporary and tends to improve as your body adapts to the medication. However, if the drowsiness persists or significantly interferes with your daily routine, it’s important to discuss it with your healthcare provider.
• Headaches: Some individuals taking Aldomet may experience headaches, particularly during the early stages of treatment or after adjusting their dose. These headaches can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by a feeling of pressure or tightness in the head. While headaches are often mild and subside over time, they can sometimes persist or become bothersome. Drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest may help alleviate the discomfort. If the headaches become severe or frequent, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.
• Stuffy Nose: A stuffy or congested nose is another common side effect of Aldomet. This can make breathing through the nose difficult and may be more noticeable during the night. The nasal congestion might be mild to moderate and could improve as your body adjusts to the medication. This side effect is usually temporary, but if it becomes bothersome or doesn’t subside over time, consult your healthcare provider for further advice. Using a humidifier or staying hydrated might help ease the congestion caused by Aldomet.
• Weakness: Weakness or a general sense of fatigue is often reported by individuals starting Aldomet or after a dose increase. This weakness can affect daily activities and may make it harder to stay active. The sensation is more pronounced in the early stages of treatment and often improves as the body adjusts to Aldomet. If the weakness persists or worsens over time, it’s essential to contact your doctor. Taking regular breaks and pacing yourself throughout the day can help manage this side effect while on Aldomet.
• Nausea: Nausea is a common side effect for some patients taking Aldomet, often occurring when the body is adjusting to the medication. This symptom might also be linked to the drug’s effects on the stomach or liver. Nausea usually subsides as the body becomes accustomed to the medication, but if it persists or worsens, it should be reported to a healthcare provider. Managing diet or adjusting the timing of doses may help in reducing nausea caused by Aldomet. In some cases, further evaluation is needed to rule out liver-related issues.

Adverse/Serious Side Effects of Aldomet: While Aldomet is generally safe, it can cause some serious side effects in certain individuals. This includes:

• • Pale or Yellowed Skin: Pale or yellowed skin could be a serious side effect of Aldomet, indicating possible liver problems or anemia. Aldomet has been linked to hemolytic anemia in some patients, where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced. A yellow tint to the skin may also suggest liver dysfunction, as Aldomet can affect liver enzymes. Patients noticing these changes should contact their healthcare provider to discuss whether blood tests or adjustments in their treatment plan are necessary to manage potential complications.
  • Dark-Colored Urine: Dark-colored urine may occur as a side effect of Aldomet and could indicate liver issues or dehydration. When Aldomet affects the liver, it can lead to the accumulation of bilirubin, which gives urine a dark appearance. In some cases, dark urine may signal hemolysis, where red blood cells are being destroyed. This side effect should not be ignored, as it can be a sign of liver dysfunction or other serious complications. Patients experiencing this symptom while on Aldomet should report it to their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
  • Fever: Fever is a potential side effect of Aldomet, often occurring as part of an allergic reaction or in response to the body’s immune system. A fever could be accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing, signaling a more severe issue. In rare cases, Aldomet can trigger a fever due to a hypersensitivity reaction or liver inflammation. Patients who develop a fever while on Aldomet should seek medical attention to rule out infections or other underlying causes related to the medication.
  • Confusion: Confusion may be a side effect experienced by individuals taking Aldomet, especially in older adults. This symptom could result from low blood pressure, insufficient blood flow to the brain, or an imbalance in electrolytes. Confusion can also arise if Aldomet affects liver or kidney function, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. It is important to notify a healthcare provider if confusion occurs, as this may require dosage adjustments or additional monitoring to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.
  • Vomiting: Vomiting can sometimes occur in patients taking Aldomet, particularly if the medication irritates the stomach or causes liver-related issues. While occasional nausea or vomiting might be mild, persistent or severe vomiting may indicate an adverse reaction to the drug. Aldomet may also affect liver function, which could contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients should discuss any occurrences of vomiting with their healthcare provider, as adjustments in dosage or medication may be necessary to alleviate this side effect.
  • Swelling: Swelling, or edema, is a possible side effect of Aldomet and may occur in areas like the hands, feet, or face. This condition can develop as a result of fluid retention or allergic reactions to the medication. In some cases, swelling could indicate a more serious issue, such as kidney dysfunction or heart complications caused by the drug. If swelling becomes severe or persists, patients are advised to consult their healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan while continuing with Aldomet.
  • Weakness: Weakness is another potential side effect of Aldomet, which can result from lowered blood pressure, changes in red blood cell counts, or impacts on the liver. When blood pressure drops significantly, it can lead to feelings of fatigue or muscle weakness. Additionally, Aldomet’s possible effect on liver or kidney function could lead to systemic weakness. Patients who experience prolonged weakness or muscle fatigue should consult their healthcare provider to assess whether the medication is contributing to this condition and whether adjustments are needed.
  • Fast Heart Rate: A fast heart rate, or tachycardia, can be a concerning side effect of Aldomet. While Aldomet is used to lower blood pressure, it may trigger reflex tachycardia, where the heart compensates for the reduced pressure by beating faster. This condition can cause discomfort or even dizziness. A persistently fast heart rate should be addressed with a healthcare provider, as it may require adjustments to Aldomet’s dosage or additional medications to manage both heart rate and blood pressure effectively.
  • Loss of Appetite: Loss of appetite can be a serious side effect of Aldomet, especially when the medication impacts the gastrointestinal system or liver. Patients may feel less inclined to eat due to nausea or other digestive disturbances. In cases where Aldomet affects liver enzymes or red blood cell production, appetite suppression may become more pronounced. A persistent loss of appetite should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as it may signal the need for further investigation or changes in the treatment plan to ensure proper nutrition.
  • Rapid Weight Gain: Rapid weight gain is a potential side effect of Aldomet, often linked to fluid retention or edema. When Aldomet causes the body to retain fluids, it can lead to noticeable weight increases, particularly in the hands, feet, or abdomen. In some cases, rapid weight gain could be a sign of worsening heart or kidney function. Patients should report any significant or sudden weight changes to their healthcare provider, as it may require further examination and adjustments to the Aldomet dosage or treatment plan.
  • Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath may occur in patients taking Aldomet and can be a sign of fluid retention or heart-related complications. Aldomet may cause the body to hold onto excess fluid, which can put a strain on the heart and lungs, leading to difficulty breathing. Patients who experience shortness of breath, particularly if it worsens or occurs suddenly, should seek immediate medical attention. This symptom may indicate a need for treatment adjustments to prevent further complications while on Aldomet.
  • Uncontrolled or Involuntary Muscle Movements: Uncontrolled or involuntary muscle movements, also known as dyskinesia, may occur in patients using Aldomet, particularly after long-term use. This rare side effect involves abnormal movements of the limbs or face, which can be uncomfortable or disruptive. If patients develop these symptoms while on Aldomet, they should consult their healthcare provider to discuss whether the medication is contributing to this condition and whether alternative treatments or dosage adjustments are necessary to manage the symptoms.
  • Upper Stomach Pain Leading to Back Pain: Upper stomach pain that extends to the back may be a sign of liver inflammation or pancreatitis, both of which can occur as side effects of Aldomet. This pain could indicate a more serious underlying issue with liver function, particularly if accompanied by symptoms like jaundice or dark-colored urine. Patients who experience this type of pain while taking Aldomet should seek medical evaluation to rule out any severe liver or pancreatic complications and to ensure appropriate treatment.

• Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes (Jaundice): Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or jaundice, is a serious potential side effect of Aldomet, typically indicating liver dysfunction. Aldomet can affect liver enzymes, leading to the buildup of bilirubin in the body, which causes yellow discoloration. Jaundice can be a sign of liver damage or inflammation, requiring immediate medical attention. Patients experiencing this symptom while on Aldomet should report it to their healthcare provider as it may necessitate stopping the medication and undergoing further testing to assess liver health.

[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

What Are the Aldomet Warnings?

When you buy Aldomet online, you should know the following warnings associated with this:

• Methyldopa therapy may result in a positive Coombs test, hemolytic anemia, and liver disorders. These conditions can lead to severe complications if not properly managed.
• 10 to 20 percent of patients on methyldopa develop a positive direct Coombs test, usually between 6 and 12 months of therapy. The risk is lowest with a daily dosage of 1g or less.
• A positive direct Coombs test does not always indicate hemolytic anemia but can be associated with it.
• Before starting methyldopa, it is advisable to perform a blood count for a baseline and periodically during therapy to detect hemolytic anemia. A direct Coombs test should also be done before treatment and 6 and 12 months after starting.
• If Coombs-positive hemolytic anemia occurs, methyldopa should be discontinued. The anemia usually remits promptly, but corticosteroids may be needed if it does not.
• Conducting direct and indirect Coombs tests is essential for patients needing a transfusion. A positive direct Coombs test does not impact the blood typing or cross-matching process.
• Fever, sometimes with eosinophilia or liver function abnormalities, may occur within the first 3 weeks of therapy. Jaundice may appear within the first 2 to 3 months.
• Rarely fatal hepatic necrosis has been reported. Periodic liver function tests are recommended, especially during the first 6 to 12 weeks of therapy or if unexplained fever occurs. If abnormalities or jaundice appear, methyldopa should be stopped.
• Reversible reductions in white blood cell count, primarily affecting granulocytes, and rare cases of granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia have been reported. These counts return to normal upon discontinuation of the drug.

What Are the Aldomet Precautions?

If you buy Methyldopa online, which is an active ingredient of Aldomet, you need to know these precautions:

General:

• Use methyldopa cautiously in patients with a history of liver disease or dysfunction.
• Some patients may experience swelling or weight gain, which can be managed with a diuretic. Discontinue methyldopa if swelling progresses or heart failure symptoms appear.
• Blood pressure may rise after dialysis in patients taking methyldopa, as the drug is removed during the procedure.
• Rarely, involuntary movements may occur in patients with severe cerebrovascular disease. Stop therapy if these movements occur.

Laboratory Tests:

• Perform blood count, Coombs test, and liver function tests before starting therapy and periodically during treatment.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility:

• No evidence of tumor formation was seen in mice and rats given methyldopa for two years.
• methyldopa was not mutagenic in the Ames Test and did not increase chromosomal abnormalities in Chinese hamster ovary cells.
• Fertility was unaffected in rats at 100 mg/kg/day, but higher doses decreased sperm count and male fertility index.

Pregnancy:

• methyldopa falls under Category B for pregnancy, with no evidence of harm to the fetus in animal studies.
• Limited human studies suggest that methyldopa may improve fetal outcomes during pregnancy.
• Use methyldopa during pregnancy only if necessary.

Nursing Mothers:

• methyldopa is present in breast milk. Use caution when prescribing methyldopa to nursing mothers.

Pediatric Use:

• There are no well-controlled clinical trials in pediatric patients. Dosing information is based on published literature on treating hypertension in children.

What Are Aldomet Contraindications?

Aldomet (methyldopa) should not be used by patients who have:

• Active liver diseases like acute hepatitis and active cirrhosis.
• Previously experienced liver disorders related to methyldopa therapy.
• Allergic to any ingredient in these products.
• Are currently taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.

What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Aldomet?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. Taking two doses at the same time is not advisable and can lead to an overdose of the medication.

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much Aldomet?

Symptoms of an overdose might include severe drowsiness, vomiting, slow heartbeat, or fainting.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How Do You Store Aldomet?

You should know the storage guidelines associated with Aldomet which includes:

• Store Aldomet (methyldopa) at average temperature.
• Keep it where it is not exposed to light and moisture.
• Avoid storing it in the bathroom.
• Store all medications out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid disposing of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them into a drain unless instructed.
• Dispose of this product properly when it has expired or is no longer needed.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional the proper disposal of unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Are the Aldomet Interactions?

Aldomet (methyldopa) can interact with several other medications. Here are some potential interactions:

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Combining Aldomet with MAOIs can lead to an additive hypotensive effect, meaning it could significantly lower blood pressure. This combination may also increase the risk of other side effects, such as dizziness or fainting.
• Lithium: Methyldopa may enhance the release of lithium in the body, potentially leading to increased lithium levels and toxicity. Patients using both drugs should be closely monitored for signs of lithium toxicity.
• Haloperidol: When used with methyldopa, haloperidol can potentiate orthostatic hypotension, which is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down, increasing the risk of falls.
• Levodopa: Methyldopa may interfere with the effectiveness of levodopa, a medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease, by competing for the same transport mechanism in the brain. This could potentially worsen the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
• Tolbutamide: Methyldopa can increase blood sugar-reducing effects of tolbutamide, used in diabetes management. This could enhance the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Respiratory Medicines: Certain respiratory medications may increase the sedative effects of methyldopa, potentially leading to enhanced drowsiness or respiratory depression.
• Beta-Blockers: The combination with beta-blockers can further reduce blood pressure and may result in an excessive drop in heart rate, especially upon standing up.
• Phenothiazines: These can also increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of methyldopa and enhance the risk of side effects like dizziness or fainting.
• Barbiturates: Barbiturates may decrease the effectiveness of methyldopa by increasing its metabolism in the liver, reducing its therapeutic effects.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants: Tricyclic antidepressants may decrease the effectiveness of methyldopa, potentially requiring dosage adjustments to maintain blood pressure control.

[Note: This is not a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Aldomet. Please tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are Aldomet Alternatives?

When you buy Methyldopa online to manage hypertension, consider the following alternatives too: 

• Lotensin (benazepril)
• Vasotec (enalapril)
• Prinivil (lisinopril)
• Accupril (quinapril)
• Altace (rampiril)
• Mavik (trandolapril)
• Capten (captopril)
• Monopril (fosinopril)
• Univasc (moexpiril)
• Aceon (perindopril)
• Edarbo (azilsartan)
• Atacand (candesartan)
• Teveten (eprosartan)
• Avapro (irbesartan)
• Cozaar (losartan)
• Diovan (valsartan)
• Benicar (Olmesartan)
• Micardis (telmisartan)
• Norvasc (amlodipine)
• Cardizem (diltiazem)
• Plendil (felodipine)
• Dynacirc (isradipine)
• Cardene SR (nicardipine)
• Calan (verapamil)
• Lotrel (amlodipine and benazepril)
• Diuril (chlorothiazide)
• Demadex (torsemide)
• Bumex (bumetanide)

[Note: Your doctor will prescribe the most suitable medication for you. Only use these alternative medications after consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Aldomet Cost & Coupons

Polar Bear Meds offers significant savings on Aldomet, with prices substantially lower than typical U.S. rates, sourced directly from Canada. We aim to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for you. For new customers, enjoy a 10% discount on your first purchase using the promo code ‘WELCOMEPB10’ at checkout. Choose Polar Bear Meds for exceptional value and convenient international shipping. You can buy Aldomet online with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aldomet available without a prescription?

No, Aldomet is a prescription medication and cannot be obtained without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. It’s essential to discuss with a doctor before starting or adjusting any medication regimen, including Aldomet. This ensures that the medication is suitable for your specific medical condition, taken in the correct dosage, and under proper medical supervision.

Are there any age restrictions for using Aldomet?

Aldomet may not be suitable for individuals under 18 due to insufficient data regarding its safety and efficacy in this age group. It is important to consult a medical practitioner before administering Aldomet to individuals under 18. Always seek the help of a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate treatment for any individual, considering their medical history and condition.

What are the long-term effects of taking Aldomet?

Long-term use of Aldomet (methyldopa) may lead to potential side effects. These include impaired kidney function, increased susceptibility to infections, and anemia. Additionally, some individuals may experience dizziness, fatigue, and swelling. Individuals on long-term Aldomet therapy must undergo regular medical check-ups to monitor for emerging issues and adjust treatment as necessary. Close medical supervision is essential to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and promptly address any potential long-term effects.

What should you avoid while on methyldopa?

• Avoid taking methyldopa with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, and tranylcypromine.
• Be cautious, as methyldopa can be linked to a severe blood disorder known as hemolytic anemia.

Our Guarantee

At PolarBearMeds.com, we assure you the most affordable price to buy Aldomet from Canada. Rest easy knowing that your order will be dispatched from a reputable Licensed Canada Pharmacy Online, adhering to the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our discounted medications are shipped directly from Canada to your doorstep, ensuring a swift and secure delivery experience. To conveniently access Aldomet at a substantial cost, call us at 1-888-779-2193 toll-free.