Suggested Use
Aldomet 250mg Tablets are indicated for the following conditions:
- Treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure with no known cause).
- Management of pregnancy-induced hypertension (gestational hypertension or preeclampsia).
- May be used in combination with other antihypertensive agents for resistant hypertension.
Dosage:
Adults: Initial dose: 250mg taken two or three times daily for 2 days; adjusted according to patient response. Maximum dose: 3g per day.
Elderly: Start with a lower dose, usually 250mg daily, to account for increased sensitivity. Adjust gradually as needed.
Children: Initial dose: 10mg/kg body weight per day, divided into 2-4 doses. Maintenance dose: 20-65mg/kg body weight per day, divided into 2-4 doses.
Pregnancy: Dose adjustment necessary; consult a healthcare provider.
Administration: Take with or without food. Swallow tablets whole with water.
Warning
- You should not use this medication if you have:
- Hypersensitivity to methyldopa or any excipients in the tablet.
- Active liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis).
- A history of methyldopa-induced liver dysfunction.
- Hemolytic anaemia associated with methyldopa.
Cautions:
- You should:
- Undergo periodic liver function tests during treatment.
- Monitor your blood counts for signs of hemolytic anaemia.
- Use with caution if you have a history of depression or Parkinson’s disease.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience sedation, dizziness, or weakness.
Drug Interactions:
- Avoid using this medication concurrently with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
- Be aware that methyldopa may enhance the sedative effects of alcohol or other CNS depressants.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- This medication is generally safe for use during pregnancy; however, consult your healthcare provider before use.
- Methyldopa is excreted in breast milk in small amounts that are unlikely to affect your infant.
Side Effects:
- Common side effects you may experience include:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Dry mouth
- Rare, but serious side effects may include:
- Hepatotoxicity
- Hemolytic anaemia
- Depression
- Fever