ALDOMET 250mg Tablets

What is ALDOMET 250mg

ALDOMET 250mg Tablets contain the active ingredient Methyldopa, a centrally acting antihypertensive agent primarily used for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension). ALDOMET belongs to the class of medications known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists and is commonly prescribed to manage blood pressure in pregnant women, where other antihypertensives may not be suitable.

• Generic Name: Methyldopa
• Form: Tablets
• Strength: 250mg
• Packaging: 30 tablets (10s Blister × 3)
• Drug Class: Centrally acting alpha-2 agonist
• Primary Use: Management of mild to moderate hypertension

Methyldopa is especially known for its safety profile during pregnancy, making ALDOMET a go-to choice for hypertensive disorders such as gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.

How to use ALDOMET 250mg

Always use ALDOMET exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The dosage and duration of therapy will depend on the individual’s condition and response to treatment.

• Take with or without food: It is typically taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Food may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Dosage frequency: Usually taken two to four times daily at evenly spaced intervals.
• Swallow whole: Do not crush or chew the tablet unless advised otherwise.
• Consistency is key: Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain stable blood levels.
• Do not skip doses: Missing a dose can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure.
• Monitor blood pressure: Regular monitoring is crucial to assess the effectiveness and adjust doses if needed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's near the time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Mode of Action ALDOMET 250mg

Methyldopa, the active component in ALDOMET, reduces blood pressure through a centrally mediated mechanism:

• Central alpha-2 agonist: Methyldopa is converted in the brain to alpha-methyl norepinephrine, which stimulates central alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.
• Decreased sympathetic tone: Activation of these receptors inhibits sympathetic nervous system outflow from the central nervous system.
• Reduced norepinephrine release: This results in decreased peripheral vascular resistance and heart rate.
• Lowered blood pressure: The net effect is a gradual and sustained reduction in blood pressure without significantly affecting cardiac output or renal blood flow.
• Renal function preservation: It maintains or may even improve renal blood flow, making it safe for use in patients with chronic kidney disease or pregnancy-induced hypertension.

Unlike many other antihypertensives, Methyldopa does not cause a significant drop in blood pressure immediately, which reduces the risk of hypotension-related side effects such as dizziness or fainting.

ALDOMET 250mg Interactions ALDOMET 250mg

Drug interactions can alter the efficacy of ALDOMET or increase the risk of adverse effects. It is essential to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

• MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine): May result in dangerous increases in blood pressure.
• Levodopa: Concurrent use may reduce the efficacy of both drugs and increase side effects.
• Other antihypertensives (e.g., beta-blockers, diuretics): May enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect, increasing the risk of hypotension.
• Iron supplements: May reduce the absorption of Methyldopa when taken simultaneously. Space dosing by at least 2 hours.
• Alcohol: Can increase the sedative effect and further lower blood pressure.
• Oral contraceptives: May reduce the antihypertensive effect of ALDOMET.
• Tricyclic antidepressants: May reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of Methyldopa.

Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be required if ALDOMET is taken with any of the above medications.

Dosage of ALDOMET 250mg

The dosage of ALDOMET should always be individualized and guided by your physician. The goal is to achieve adequate blood pressure control with the lowest effective dose.

• Initial adult dose: 250mg two to three times daily.
• Titration: The dose may be increased at 2-day intervals until the desired blood pressure control is achieved.
• Usual maintenance dose: 500mg to 2g daily, divided into two to four doses.
• Maximum recommended dose: Up to 3g per day in divided doses.
• Elderly patients: May require lower initial and maintenance doses due to decreased renal function.
• Pediatric use: Based on body weight (typically 10 mg/kg/day), under strict medical supervision.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Do not alter the dose without consulting your physician.

Possible side effects of ALDOMET 250mg

Like all medications, ALDOMET may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and manageable.

• Common side effects:
  • Drowsiness or sedation (especially at the start of therapy)
  • Headache
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Dry mouth
  • Edema (fluid retention)
• Less common side effects:
  • Fever
  • Depression
  • Nightmares
  • Gynecomastia (breast enlargement in males)
• Serious side effects (rare):
  • Hepatitis or liver dysfunction
  • Hemolytic anemia
  • Myocarditis
  • Bradycardia (slow heart rate)

If you experience symptoms like yellowing of the eyes/skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness, seek medical attention immediately.

ALDOMET 250mg Contraindications ALDOMET 250mg

ALDOMET should not be used in certain medical conditions. Patients must be screened before starting therapy.

• Known hypersensitivity: Allergy to Methyldopa or any of the tablet's components.
• Active liver disease: Including hepatitis or cirrhosis.
• History of Methyldopa-induced liver dysfunction: Rechallenge may lead to severe hepatic injury.
• Depression: Use with caution in patients with a history of depressive illness.
• Pheochromocytoma: Methyldopa may interfere with diagnostic testing and worsen symptoms.
• Hemolytic anemia: ALDOMET can exacerbate or cause hemolytic reactions in predisposed individuals.

Always inform your doctor about your complete medical history before starting ALDOMET.

Storage of ALDOMET 250mg

Proper storage of ALDOMET ensures its stability and effectiveness throughout its shelf life.

• Store at room temperature: Between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F).
• Keep in the original packaging: To protect from moisture and light.
• Avoid humidity: Do not store in bathrooms or near sinks.
• Keep away from children: Store in a secure location out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze: Freezing may degrade the medication.
• Do not use after expiry date: Check the label for the expiration date and discard properly if expired.

For disposal, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal service to properly discard unused or expired medicine.