Medicines and Drugs
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Methyldopate HCl intraven.
Drug Name Methyldopate HCl intraven.
Methyldopate HCl intraven. Drug Category METHYLDOPA INJECTION
Methyldopate HCl intraven. Drug Information
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
METHYLDOPA INJECTION
(meth-ill-DOPE-uh)
USES: This drug is used for high blood pressure (hypertension).
HOW TO USE: Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to use it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue using this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, gas, dry mouth, fatigue, and stomach upset may occur. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, depression, severe stomach cramps, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes, rash. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, any allergies. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Alcohol may increase the drowsy/dizzy effects of this drug. Limit alcohol intake. Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Methyldopa is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the drugs you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: lithium, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline), levodopa, antidepressants, iron supplements, other blood pressure drugs. Avoid any drugs that increase your heart rate (decongestants phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine are examples). These drugs are commonly found in cough-and-cold products. Consult your pharmacist or doctor before using cough-and-cold products. Caffeine may also increase your blood pressure. Caffeine can be found in some nonprescription diet medications, in colas, coffee and tea. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, weakness, slow heart rate, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
NOTES: It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).