ALDOMET 500mg Tablets

What is ALDOMET 500mg

ALDOMET 500mg Tablets contain Methyldopa as the active ingredient. Methyldopa is a centrally acting antihypertensive agent used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), particularly during pregnancy. It belongs to the class of medications known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. ALDOMET is known for its reliable efficacy and long-standing safety record in managing both essential and gestational hypertension.

• Generic Name: Methyldopa
• Strength: 500mg
• Dosage Form: Oral tablets
• Packaging: 30 tablets (10s Blister × 3)
• Drug Class: Centrally acting antiadrenergic agents
• Main Indication: Management of mild to moderate hypertension
• Special Use: Frequently used in pregnancy-induced hypertension due to its favorable safety profile

By lowering high blood pressure, ALDOMET helps prevent serious complications such as strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is often prescribed when first-line agents like ACE inhibitors are contraindicated or unsuitable, especially in pregnancy.

How to use ALDOMET 500mg

ALDOMET 500mg should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Proper usage is essential to effectively manage blood pressure and avoid complications.

• Route of Administration: Oral – taken by mouth with or without food
• Swallow Whole: Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush unless directed.
• Dosing Schedule: Often prescribed 2–4 times a day depending on the total daily dosage
• Consistency: Take it at the same time every day to maintain steady blood levels
• With or Without Food: Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset, but it works equally well on an empty stomach
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it's near the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose.

It's important not to stop taking ALDOMET suddenly without your doctor's advice, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to a sudden spike in blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and periodic blood tests may be needed to ensure the medication is working effectively and safely.

Mode of Action ALDOMET 500mg

ALDOMET (Methyldopa) works by affecting the central nervous system to reduce blood pressure. Its mechanism of action is unique compared to other antihypertensive agents.

• Central Conversion: Methyldopa is converted in the brain to alpha-methylnorepinephrine, a false neurotransmitter.
• Alpha-2 Agonism: This metabolite stimulates central alpha-2 adrenergic receptors.
• Reduced Sympathetic Output: Activation of these receptors reduces the output of norepinephrine from the central nervous system.
• Decreased Peripheral Resistance: The reduction in sympathetic tone causes blood vessels to relax, leading to lower blood pressure.
• Minimal Cardiac Effect: Methyldopa lowers blood pressure without significantly affecting heart rate or cardiac output in most patients.
• Renal Safety: It maintains renal blood flow, making it suitable for patients with kidney issues or pregnancy-related hypertension.

This unique central action makes ALDOMET particularly effective in patients with elevated sympathetic activity and those for whom peripheral vasodilators or beta-blockers are not suitable.

ALDOMET 500mg Interactions ALDOMET 500mg

Drug interactions may influence the way ALDOMET works or increase the risk of adverse effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking.

• MAO Inhibitors (e.g., Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine): May cause dangerous increases in blood pressure when used with Methyldopa.
• Levodopa: Concurrent use may reduce the effectiveness of both drugs and increase side effects such as confusion and hallucinations.
• Iron Supplements: Can decrease the absorption of Methyldopa. Administer at least 2 hours apart.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline): May reduce the antihypertensive effect of ALDOMET.
• Other Antihypertensives: Co-administration with diuretics or beta-blockers may enhance blood pressure-lowering effect, increasing the risk of hypotension.
• Alcohol: May enhance the sedative effects and further lower blood pressure, increasing the risk of dizziness or fainting.
• Oral Contraceptives: May slightly reduce the efficacy of ALDOMET, requiring dosage adjustments.

Monitoring and adjustment of ALDOMET dosage may be necessary when used with interacting medications. Regular check-ups and blood pressure monitoring are advised when introducing or withdrawing any drug.

Dosage of ALDOMET 500mg

The dosage of ALDOMET varies depending on individual patient needs, response to therapy, and whether it is used alone or with other medications. Dosage should be carefully adjusted by a physician.

• Starting Dose: Adults may begin with 250–500mg daily, usually in divided doses (e.g., every 8–12 hours).
• Titration: Dose can be increased every 2 days based on patient response. The goal is to maintain a steady, controlled reduction in blood pressure.
• Maintenance Dose: Commonly ranges from 500mg to 2g per day in two to four divided doses.
• Maximum Daily Dose: 3g per day is the upper recommended limit.
• Elderly Patients: Typically require lower doses due to reduced renal function and increased sensitivity.
• In Pregnancy: Methyldopa is often used during pregnancy, with dose adjustments based on blood pressure response and safety considerations.

Regular blood pressure checks and laboratory monitoring (e.g., liver function tests, complete blood count) may be needed during dose adjustments to detect side effects early and assess response.

Possible side effects of ALDOMET 500mg

While ALDOMET is generally well tolerated, especially in pregnant patients, it may cause some side effects. Most are mild, though serious adverse reactions can occur in rare cases.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Drowsiness or sedation, especially during the first few days of treatment
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Edema (swelling of hands or feet)
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Depression or mood changes
  • Nightmares or vivid dreams
  • Fever
  • Breast enlargement in men (gynecomastia)
• Serious Side Effects (Rare):
  • Hepatitis or liver injury (may present with yellowing of eyes or dark urine)
  • Hemolytic anemia
  • Bradycardia (abnormally slow heartbeat)
  • Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)

Inform your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, severe fatigue, jaundice, or unexplained bruising.

ALDOMET 500mg Contraindications ALDOMET 500mg

ALDOMET is not suitable for all individuals. Certain conditions may increase the risk of harmful effects when using Methyldopa.

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to Methyldopa or any of the excipients in the tablet formulation.
• Active Liver Disease: Including hepatitis and cirrhosis – ALDOMET can worsen hepatic function.
• Previous Methyldopa-Induced Liver Disorder: Re-exposure may cause recurrent hepatic injury.
• Hemolytic Anemia: History of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia linked to Methyldopa use
• Pheochromocytoma: ALDOMET may interfere with diagnostic testing and aggravate symptoms.
• Depressive Disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of depression, as it may worsen mood symptoms.

Before initiating treatment, a thorough medical history and baseline liver function testing should be performed. Close monitoring is essential if the patient has a history of borderline liver function or autoimmune disorders.

Storage of ALDOMET 500mg

Proper storage of ALDOMET helps maintain its stability and effectiveness until the expiry date.

• Storage Temperature: Keep at 15°C to 25°C (59°F–77°F). Avoid temperature extremes.
• Keep in Original Packaging: Protects tablets from moisture and light
• Do Not Store in Bathrooms: High humidity can degrade the tablets
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store in a child-proof container in a secure location
• Do Not Freeze: Methyldopa tablets should not be exposed to freezing temperatures
• Check Expiry Date: Do not use tablets after the expiration date on the package

Dispose of unused or expired medication properly. Consult your pharmacist for safe disposal methods—do not flush medicines down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed.