Alphadopa 250mg Tablet 10s

Side Effects of Alphadopa 250mg Tablet 10s

Peripheral oedema; drug fever, mental depression, anxiety, nightmares, drowsiness, headache; dry mouth; orthostatic hypotension, sinus bradycardia, sodium retention, sexual dysfunction, gynaecomastia, hyperprolactinaemia, thrombocytopenia, positive Coombs' test, transient leukopenia or granulocytopenia, cholestasis or hepatitis and heptocellular injury, increased liver enzymes, jaundice, cirrhosis, dyspnoea, SLE-like syndrome. Potentially Fatal: Hepatic necrosis, haemolytic anaemia.

Drug Interactions

Reduced hypotensive effects with phenothiazines, TCAs and possibly, amphetamines. Additive hypotensive effects with levodopa; psychosis may also occur. Reduced absorption and effects with oral iron preparations. Reduced doses of general anaesthetics may be required. Effect of ephedrine may be reduced. Potentially Fatal: Increased risk of severe hypertension with MAOIs. Increased lithium toxicity.

Contraindications

Phaeochromocytoma, active liver disease. Patients in whom previous methyldopa treatment resulted in liver abnormalities or direct Coombs' positive haemolytic anaemia.

Mechanism of Action

Methyldopa stimulates α2-adrenoceptors which results in reduced sympathetic tone and fall in BP. Onset: 4-6 hr. Duration: 48 hr (oral); 10-16 hr (IV). Absorption: Variable and incomplete from the GI tract, via amino acid active transport system (oral). Distribution: Crosses the placenta; penetrates the blood-brain barrier; enters the breast milk. Protein-binding: Minimal. Metabolism: Extensively hepatic. CNS: Decarboxylation to α-methyl-noradrenaline. Excretion: Via urine (as unchanged drug and as o-sulfate conjugate); prolonged in renal impairment; 1.7 hr (elimination half-life).

Special Precautions

History of haemolytic anaemia, depression, parkinsonism, renal or hepatic impairment. May impair ability to drive or operate machinery. Monitor blood counts and perform LFTs. Elderly.

How to Use

Take orally with food and water, as directed by your physician.

How to Store

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety Concerns

• Alcohol: Avoid during treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated.
• Liver/Kidney: Use with caution.

Content Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor before use.