Methyldopa

In Aotearoa New Zealand methyldopa is available as 250 mg tablets.

• The usual starting dose of methyldopa is 250 mg two or three times a day.
• Your doctor may increase your dose if needed, depending on your blood pressure.
• Always take your methyldopa exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much methyldopa to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.

• Swallow your methyldopa tablets with a glass of water. You can take your methyldopa tablets with or without food.
• Timing:
  • Take your methyldopa doses at the same times each day.
  • It is a good idea to start methyldopa or any new dose increase in the evening to reduce the chance of side effects. Also, if your doses of methyldopa are not equal, take the larger dose at bedtime.
• Alcohol: If you drink alcohol, ask your doctor for advice about taking methyldopa and alcohol. Alcohol may increase your chance of side effects such as dizziness, by adding to the blood pressure lowering effect of methyldopa.
• Missed dose: If you forget your dose, take it as soon as you remember that day. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Do not take double the dose.
• Take regularly: Continue to take methyldopa every day, even if you feel well. Do not stop taking methyldopa suddenly as this can cause a sudden increase in your blood pressure. Speak to your doctor or nurse before stopping.

Here are some things to know when you're taking methyldopa. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

Methyldopa can interact with some medications. These include anti-inflammatories such as diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren Rapid), ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen) or naproxen (e.g. Naprogesic). 

Methyldopa can also interact with some herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new products. 

Like all medicines, methyldopa can cause unwanted side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often unwanted side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.