Methyldopate hydrochloride (Injection)

Introduction:

Methyldopate Hydrochloride

Treats high blood pressure in people who cannot take methyldopa by mouth.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• This medicine is not for long-term use. Your doctor may switch you to methyldopate that you take by mouth (methyldopa) as soon as you are able.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using lithium, or any blood pressure medicine. Some blood pressure medicines are atenolol, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), lisinopril, metoprolol, quinapril, Accupril®, Cozaar®, Diovan®, Lotrel®, Norvasc®, Toprol®, or Zestril®.
• Tell your doctor if you are using an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease (or are on dialysis), or a history of stroke or liver disease. Your doctor will need to know if you have asthma or other breathing problems.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain (may be related to your disease and not a side effect).
• Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
• Fever.
• Lightheadedness, fainting, or slow heartbeat.
• Uncontrolled movements of your face, arms, or legs.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
• Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Breast swelling or tenderness (in both men and women).
• Headache.
• Muscle or joint pain.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Rapid weight gain.
• Stuffy nose or dry mouth.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: