Doparine Indications/Uses

Methyldopa is an antihypertensive drug that is thought to have a predominantly central action. It is decarboxylated in the Central Nervous System to alpha-methyladrenaline which is thought to stimulate alpha 2 adrenoceptors resulting in a reduction in sympathetic tone and a fall in blood pressure. It may also act as false neurotransmitter, and have some inhibitory actions on plasma renin activity. Methyldopa reduces the tissue concentrations of dopamine, noradrenaline, adrenaline, and serotonin.
Methyldopa is used in the management of hypertension. Although other drugs with fewer adverse effects are generally preferred, methyldopa may however be the drug of choice for hypertension in pregnancy. When given with thiazide diuretics edema and tolerance with methyldopa therapy may be reduced.