(Alpha) Methyldopa
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Sympathomimetics and Sympatholytics (Old)
- Dopamine
- Fenoldopam
- Dobutamine
- Epinephrine
- Norepinephrine
- Isoproterenol
- Midodrine
- Phenylephrine and Pseudoephedrine
- (Alpha) Methyldopa
- Clonidine (and Guanfacine)
- Tizanidine
(Alpha) Methyldopa
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Summary
Alpha-methyldopa is an anti-hypertensive drug that works by activating the alpha-2 receptors of the central nervous system. This leads to a decrease in sympathetic output that helps to lower blood pressure. Clinically, alpha-methyldopa is used to treat hypertension in pregnant patients. However, use of alpha-methyldopa can lead to the creation of auto-antibodies that cause autoimmune hemolysis and drug-induced lupus as side effects.
Key Points
- Alpha-Methyldopa
- Mechanism
- Alpha-2 Agonist
- In brainstem: leads to reduced sympathetic outflow from spinal cord
- On presynaptic neurons: leads to negative feedback and decreased release of catecholamines on target sites (heart, smooth muscle)
- Alpha-2 Agonist
- Clinical Use
- Hypertension in Pregnancy
- Decreased sympathetic outflow from spinal cord, in addition to decreased effect of catecholamines on target sites
- Hypertension in Pregnancy
- Adverse Effects
- Direct Coombs-positive Hemolysis (Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia)
- Drug-Induced Lupus
- Sexual Impotence
- Mechanism