Side Effects of methyldopa: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Methyldopa is a medication that has been widely used for treating high blood pressure during pregnancy. It works by stimulating alpha-2 receptors in the brain, which helps to decrease the activity of the sympathetic nervous system and lower blood pressure. However, methyldopa is known to have some side effects, and several studies have shown a link between its use in pregnancy and some side effects in both the mother and the fetus. For instance, 16 reports that methyldopa could cause drug-induced hemolytic anemia. Also, 7 reports that methyldopa can cause hepatotoxicity during pregnancy. Additionally, 8 reports that methyldopa might promote erythrocyte cell membrane scrambling, which can shorten the lifespan of red blood cells and lead to anemia. These research findings indicate that methyldopa can be effective for treating high blood pressure during pregnancy while also carrying the risk of side effects.

Reasons for side effects

The exact reasons why methyldopa causes side effects are not yet fully understood. However, some studies suggest that methyldopa's inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system and its promotion of erythrocyte cell membrane scrambling are potential causes. Additionally, methyldopa may cause damage to the liver during metabolism. Side effects of methyldopa vary from person to person, but it is essential for pregnant women to discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor before using methyldopa.

Common side effects

Anemia

Methyldopa can cause drug-induced hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells are destroyed prematurely. 16 .

Hepatotoxicity

Methyldopa can cause hepatotoxicity during pregnancy due to potential liver damage during metabolism. 7 .

Other side effects

Methyldopa can also cause other side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth. 1 .

Side effects management

Anemia

If you experience symptoms of anemia, consult your doctor for proper treatment, which may include iron supplements or blood transfusions.

Hepatotoxicity

If you experience symptoms of hepatotoxicity, consult your doctor and stop taking methyldopa. Treatment for hepatotoxicity might involve steroid medication or liver transplantation.

Other side effects

Consult your doctor if you experience other side effects. Depending on the severity, you may need to stop taking methyldopa or switch to a different medication.

Comparison between Studies

Similarities

Several studies indicate that methyldopa can cause side effects in both the mother and the fetus during pregnancy. These side effects can include anemia, hepatotoxicity, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth.

Differences

Each study may report different types or severities of side effects caused by methyldopa. For example, some studies might highlight a higher risk of anemia while others indicate a greater risk of hepatotoxicity. This variability could stem from differences in the characteristics of the study participants or the research methods used.

Considerations for Real-Life Application

It is crucial to understand the risks and benefits of using methyldopa during pregnancy. While it can effectively treat high blood pressure, it also has potential side effects. Before taking methyldopa, consult your doctor to understand the risks and benefits thoroughly.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on methyldopa's side effects is still incomplete. Studies specifically investigating the long-term effects of methyldopa use in pregnancy are limited due to ethical concerns. More research is needed to gain a full understanding of the side effects associated with methyldopa.

Future Research Directions

Further research is essential to better understand the side effects of methyldopa, particularly those related to long-term effects during pregnancy. Additionally, developing new treatments to mitigate the side effects of methyldopa is highly desirable. These endeavors can help find safer and more effective ways to use methyldopa.

Conclusion

Methyldopa can be effective for treating high blood pressure during pregnancy but carries the risk of side effects. It is crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before using methyldopa. More research is necessary to gain a more complete understanding of its side effects. Numerous alternatives exist for treating high blood pressure during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to determine the safest and most effective treatment for you.

Keywords
Benefit Keywords
Hypertension treatment in pregnancy
1
Severe hypertension reduction
3
Infection treatment
Pain management
Sedation
4
Blood pressure control
6
Analgesia sparing
Anesthesia sparing
Hypertension treatment
9
Reduced fetal complications
Reduced maternal complications
10
Hypertension treatment
13
Hot flash relief
Reduced hot flash severity
14
Reduced hypertension risk
15
Hypertension treatment
17
Hypertension control
18
Pregnancy hypertension treatment
19
Decreases blood pressure in preeclampsia
May be as effective as dihydralazine
May be effective for chronic hypertension
May decrease preeclampsia and severe hypertension
May postpone delivery in HELLP syndrome
20
CNS effects
Optimal sympathetic blockade
21
Preeclampsia risk reduction
Reduced hypertension risk
22
Prevents complications
Reduces perinatal death
23
Hypertension treatment
Preeclampsia treatment
25
Lower blood pressure
26
Blood pressure reduction
27
Hypertension treatment
28
Hypertension treatment
29
Risk Keywords
Intrauterine growth restriction
Low birth weight
Preeclampsia
Preterm labor
1
Fetal developmental effects
2
Congenital malformations
Fetal risk
4
Drug unavailability
5
Side effects
6
Hepatitis
7
Drug-induced anemia
Erythrocyte death
8
Salt and water retention
9
High risk pregnancy
10
Fatalites
Hemolytic anemia
11
Colonic hypomotility
Colonic ischemia
Colonic pseudo-obstruction
Hemorrhagic colitis
Inflammatory colitis
Lymphocytic colitis
Neutropenic colitis
Pseudomembranous colitis
Toxic colitis
Yersinia enterocolitis
12
Breast cancer
Stroke
Thromboembolism
14
Increased SGA risk
15
Hemolytic anemia
16
Dry mouth
Sedation
17
Maternal side effects
Neonatal side effects
18
Congestive heart failure
Hypertension
Side effects
21
Cerebrovascular complications
Fetal growth retardation
22
Growth retardation
Long-term infant effects
Placental hypoperfusion
23
Hepatotoxicity
Liver damage
24
Fetal side effects
25
Drowsiness
Sedation
26
Adverse effects
Dry mouth
Sedation
28
Adverse effects
Dry mouth
Sedation
29
Literature analysis of 29 papers
Positive Content
19
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
8
Article Type
0
2
4
21
29
1.

The comparison of side effects of methyldopa, amlodipine, and metoprolol in pregnant women with chronic hypertension.

Author: GhafarzadehMasoumeh, ShakaramiAmir, YariFatemeh, NamdariParsa

Hypertension treatment in pregnancy
Intrauterine growth restriction
Low birth weight
Preeclampsia
Preterm labor

A retrospective cohort study of 300 pregnant women with chronic hypertension found that methyldopa and amlodipine were associated with the least side effects. However, methyldopa was associated with a higher incidence of preeclampsia than metoprolol.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

3.

Antihypertensive drug therapy for mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy.

Author: AbalosEdgardo, DuleyLelia, SteynD Wilhelm, GialdiniCelina

Severe hypertension reduction

Antihypertensive drug therapy for mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy reduces the risk of severe hypertension. However, the effect on other clinically important outcomes is unclear. If antihypertensive drugs are used, beta blockers and calcium channel blockers appear to be more effective than other alternatives.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

5.

[Why do good drugs disappear?].

Author: BrezisMayer, TomerRon, KlangSamuel, HammermanAriel

Drug unavailability

This article discusses the disappearance of old drugs from the market due to market failures and failures in production and regulatory processes. Switching to newer agents increases costs and is often associated with relative uncertainty about safety and efficacy. System revisions are needed to allow continued availability of old, safe and effective drugs.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : Hebrew

6.

Methyldopa for primary hypertension.

Author: MahGreg T, TejaniAaron M, MusiniVijaya M

Blood pressure control
Side effects

This review examines the effectiveness of methyldopa, a centrally acting antihypertensive agent, compared to placebo. While methyldopa was widely used in the past, its use has declined due to side effects. However, methyldopa remains a cost-effective option in developing countries.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

7.

Alpha-methyldopa hepatotoxicity in pregnancy.

Author: AliTauseef, SrinivasanNandakumar, LeVu, RizviSyed

Hepatitis

A 33-year-old pregnant woman was diagnosed with methyldopa-induced hepatitis. She presented with jaundice and changed urine color. Liver function tests revealed elevated transaminases, and she was treated with prednisone. Two weeks later, liver enzyme levels returned to normal.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

8.

Stimulation of erythrocyte cell membrane scrambling by methyldopa.

Author: MahmudHasan, FöllerMichael, LangFlorian

Drug-induced anemia
Erythrocyte death

This study explored whether eryptosis could be triggered by methyldopa, a drug used to treat hypertension in pregnancy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

10.

[Management of uncomplicated arterial hypertension in pregnancy].

Author: GullottiD, GullottiA, SchillaciL, Lo GencoA, FiglioliF, PiraM, RotoloG

Reduced fetal complications
Reduced maternal complications
High risk pregnancy

Managing uncomplicated hypertension during pregnancy is essential to minimize risks for both mother and fetus. Monitoring blood pressure, hematochemical parameters, and albuminuria is crucial. Non-pharmacological interventions include diet modification, weight loss, and lifestyle changes. If these measures are insufficient, pharmacological therapy with non-toxic and non-teratogenic medications is recommended. Severe hypertension may require more aggressive treatment and hospitalization.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Italian

11.

The changing spectrum of drug-induced immune hemolytic anemia.

Author: ArndtPatricia A, GarrattyGeorge

Fatalites
Hemolytic anemia

This abstract reviews drug-induced immune hemolytic anemia (DIIHA), a rare but serious adverse effect. It highlights the most common drugs associated with DIIHA, including cefotetan and ceftriaxone, and discusses the different types of drug antibodies involved.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

12.

Colonic toxicity of administered drugs and chemicals.

Author: CappellMitchell S

Colonic hypomotility
Colonic ischemia
Colonic pseudo-obstruction
Hemorrhagic colitis
Inflammatory colitis
Lymphocytic colitis
Neutropenic colitis
Pseudomembranous colitis
Toxic colitis
Yersinia enterocolitis

Medication-induced colonotoxicity, though uncommon, can be serious and requires prompt medication cessation. This review categorizes medications associated with colonotoxicity into various categories, including those associated with ischemia, pseudo-obstruction, colitis, and lymphocytic colitis.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

14.

Treatment of menopause-associated vasomotor symptoms: position statement of The North American Menopause Society.

Author:

Hot flash relief
Reduced hot flash severity
Breast cancer
Stroke
Thromboembolism

For mild vasomotor symptoms, lifestyle changes and nonprescription remedies, such as dietary isoflavones, black cohosh, or vitamin E, are recommended. Systemic estrogen therapy remains the standard treatment for moderate to severe hot flashes, but has associated risks. For women with concerns about estrogen, prescription progestogens, venlafaxine, paroxetine, fluoxetine, or gabapentin may be considered.

GuidelineRecommendations and best practices developed by experts for healthcare professionals to refer to when making clinical judgments and providing care.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Practice GuidelineGuidelines and recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of specific medical conditions in medical practice.

Language : English

15.

Oral beta-blockers for mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy.

Author: MageeL A, DuleyL

Reduced hypertension risk
Increased SGA risk

Oral beta-blockers decrease the risk of severe hypertension and the need for additional antihypertensives in women with mild to moderate pregnancy hypertension. However, they may be associated with an increase in small-for-gestational-age infants.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

16.

[Drug-induced hemolytic anemia].

Author: WautierJ L, RougerP

Hemolytic anemia

This abstract discusses the potential of drug administration to cause hemolytic anemia, a condition involving the destruction of red blood cells. The authors list various drugs known to be associated with hemolysis.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : French

18.

Pharmacological treatment of severe hypertension in pregnancy and the role of serotonin(2)-receptor blockers.

Author: BolteA C, van GeijnH P, DekkerG A

Hypertension control
Maternal side effects
Neonatal side effects

Ketanserin, a serotonin(2)-receptor blocker, is a promising drug for treating pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorders.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

19.

Oral beta-blockers for mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy.

Author: MageeL A, DuleyL

Pregnancy hypertension treatment

Antihypertensive drugs are widely used during pregnancy to improve outcomes for both the mother and baby. Beta-blockers, methyldopa, and calcium channel blockers are common choices.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

21.

Cardiovascular consequences of sympathetic hyperactivity.

Author: LeenenF H

CNS effects
Optimal sympathetic blockade
Congestive heart failure
Hypertension
Side effects

The sympathetic nervous system plays a crucial role in cardiovascular homeostasis. This study discusses the role of alpha- and beta-receptors in mediating the effects of sympathetic hyperactivity on the heart and explores the potential of central nervous system (CNS) interventions to reduce sympathetic nerve activity.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

22.

[Treatment of hypertensive diseases in pregnancy--general recommendations and long-term oral therapy].

Author: RathW

Preeclampsia risk reduction
Reduced hypertension risk
Cerebrovascular complications
Fetal growth retardation

Antihypertensive therapy is recommended for pregnant women with a sustained diastolic blood pressure of 110 mmHg or more, while delivery is the ultimate cure of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : German

23.

Report of the Canadian Hypertension Society Consensus Conference: 3. Pharmacologic treatment of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy.

Author: ReyE, LeLorierJ, BurgessE, LangeI R, LeducL

Prevents complications
Reduces perinatal death
Growth retardation
Long-term infant effects
Placental hypoperfusion

For pregnant women with severe hypertension (systolic blood pressure > 169 mm Hg or diastolic pressure > 109 mm Hg), immediate pharmacologic treatment with hydralazine, labetalol, or nifedipine is recommended. Other hypertension thresholds and first-line medications are provided in the guidelines.

Consensus Development ConferenceA conference organized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop consensus and recommendations on medical issues.
GuidelineRecommendations and best practices developed by experts for healthcare professionals to refer to when making clinical judgments and providing care.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Practice GuidelineGuidelines and recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of specific medical conditions in medical practice.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

24.

[Hepatic diseases caused by drugs].

Author: LammertF, MaternS

Hepatotoxicity
Liver damage

Drug-induced hepatotoxicity can cause various acute and chronic liver diseases. The article outlines the mechanisms of drug-induced liver damage, including intrinsic toxicity and immune-mediated mechanisms. It highlights the clinical and morphological characteristics of different types of drug-induced liver diseases and discusses treatment strategies.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : German

25.

Drug management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Author: KhedunS M, MoodleyJ, NaickerT, MaharajB

Hypertension treatment
Preeclampsia treatment
Fetal side effects

This article reviews drugs used to manage hypertension in pregnancy and the preeclampsia-eclampsia syndrome. While older, established drugs remain effective, newer options, particularly calcium antagonists, show promise with fewer side effects. However, the long-term safety of these newer drugs for both mother and fetus still requires further investigation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

26.

[Centrally acting sympathetic inhibitors for therapy of patients with hypertension].

Author: KawasakiH

Lower blood pressure
Drowsiness
Sedation

Centrally acting antihypertensive drugs, like clonidine, effectively lower blood pressure by acting as alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonists in the brain. Newer imidazoline compounds, like rilmenidine and moxonidine, may offer a similar benefit without sedation and drowsiness.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Japanese

27.

Centrally acting antihypertensives: a renaissance of interest. Mechanisms and haemodynamics.

Author: van ZwietenP A

Blood pressure reduction

Classic centrally acting antihypertensives stimulate alpha2-adrenoceptors in the pontomedullary region, leading to peripheral sympathoinhibition and a reduction in blood pressure through vasodilation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

28.

Aspects of tolerability of centrally acting antihypertensive drugs.

Author: WebsterJ, KochH F

Hypertension treatment
Adverse effects
Dry mouth
Sedation

Imidazoline receptor agonists, such as moxonidine and rilmenidine, offer a potential for first-line therapy for hypertension with fewer adverse effects than traditional centrally acting antihypertensives.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

29.

From alpha and beta to I1: an overview of sympathetic receptors involved in blood pressure control targets for drug treatment.

Author: van ZwietenP A

Hypertension treatment
Adverse effects
Dry mouth
Sedation

Centrally acting antihypertensives, such as clonidine, guanfacine, and alpha-methyldopa, act on alpha-adrenoceptors and imidazoline receptors in the CNS to reduce blood pressure. Imidazoline receptor agonists, such as moxonidine and rilmenidine, may have a more favorable pattern of side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

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