methyldopa (Aldomet)

Question 1

Class

Answer 1

alpha-2-adrenoreceptor agonist

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

Gestational hypertension

Question 3

Dose Range

Answer 3

125 – 500 mg 2-4 times daily

Question 4

Counselling/SE

Answer 4

• This medicine may make you feel drowsy or light-headed especially at the start of treatment or when the dose is increased; if affected, do not drive or operate machinery.
• You may feel dizzy on standing when taking this medication – get up gradually from sitting or lying position; sit or lie down if you become dizzy.

SE:

• orthostatic hypotension, dizziness
• drowsiness fatigue
• headache
• dry mouth
• bradycardia
• fever

Question 5

Monitoring

Answer 5

• BP
• ECG
• falls risk