Is methyldopa safe during pregnancy?

Use of methyldopa in pregnancy is common and is unlikely to cause any harm. Most pregnant women taking methyldopa will start treatment after the first trimester when the baby is fully developed. This will therefore not cause structural birth defects in the baby.

What is the safest blood pressure medication during pregnancy?

Methyldopa has been used for decades to treat high blood pressure in pregnancy and it appears to be safe. Labetalol has been extensively studied and has become increasing prescribed in pregnancy. Labetalol is now commonly used as a first-line treatment choice.

What are the side effects of methyldopa in pregnancy?

Other side effects of Aldomet include:

• weight gain,
• joint pain or swelling,
• muscle pain,
• dry mouth,
• vomiting,
• stomach pain,
• swollen or “black” tongue,
• constipation,

When should I stop taking methyldopa while pregnant?

Be aware that methyldopa taken during pregnancy should ideally be stopped within 2 days of birth as it may increase the risk of depression.

What are the side effects of methyldopa?

Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, headache, stuffy nose, and weakness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

How can I lower my blood pressure while pregnant?

Some ways to lower the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy include:

1. limiting salt intake.
2. staying hydrated.
3. eating a balanced diet that is rich in plant-based foods and low in processed foods.
4. getting regular exercise.
5. getting regular prenatal checkups.
6. avoiding smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol.

When should I stop taking methyldopa?

Methyldopa should be discontinued if hemolytic anemia occurs during treatment. Methyldopa should be used cautiously in patients who have a history of liver disease and should be avoided in patients with active liver disease including acute hepatitis and active cirrhosis.

How quickly does methyldopa work?

Once an effective dosage range is attained, a smooth blood pressure response occurs in most patients in 12 to 24 hours. Since methyldopa has a relatively short duration of action, withdrawal is followed by return of hypertension usually within 48 hours.

Is Hypotone safe in pregnancy?

Yes, this is fine to use in pregnancy and is the usual one used for hypertension in pregnant women.

Can I stop taking methyldopa?

Do not stop taking methyldopa without talking to your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking methyldopa, your blood pressure may increase and you may experience side effects. Your doctor will decrease your dose gradually.

Can you have a natural birth with high blood pressure?

As long as your blood pressure remains within target levels, you should be able to have a natural vaginal birth. If you have severe hypertension, your blood pressure will be monitored every 15 to 30 minutes in labour.

What is chronic hypertension in pregnancy?

Chronic hypertension in pregnancy is defined by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) as blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg systolic and/or 90 mm Hg diastolic before pregnancy or, in recognition that many women seek medical care only once pregnant, before 20 weeks of gestation, use of antihypertensive …

Can methyldopa cause liver damage?

Introduction. Methyldopa (alpha-methyldopa or α-methyldopa) is a centrally active sympatholytic agent that has been used for more than 50 years for the treatment of hypertension. Methyldopa has been clearly linked to instances of acute and chronic liver injury that can be severe and even fatal.

What is the safest blood pressure medication to take?

Safe medications to use include methyldopa and potentially some diuretics and beta-blockers, including labetalol.