Description:

Aldomet 500 Tablets contain methyldopa, a centrally acting antihypertensive medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, reducing the workload on the heart and helping prevent complications like stroke, heart attack, or kidney problems. It is often used alone or with other agents, including in pregnancy-related hypertension due to its established safety profile in that context.

Prescription:

• Yes

Therapeutic Category:

• Antihypertensive / Centrally Acting Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Methyldopa 500 mg per tablet

Variant:

• 500 mg film-coated tablets (yellow, round, biconvex, marked “ALDOMET” or “500” on one side; also available in 250 mg or 125 mg strengths in the Aldomet line, but this is the 500 mg variant)

Consume Type:

• Oral

Directions/Usage:

• Take with or without food, usually 2–4 times daily. Initial adult dose: 250 mg 2–3 times daily for the first 2 days. Maintenance: Adjust gradually (increases of 250–500 mg every 2+ days) to 500 mg–2 g daily in divided doses (max recommended 3 g/day). Larger doses often taken at bedtime to minimize drowsiness. Swallow whole with water. Dosage individualized by doctor based on response and blood pressure monitoring. Do not stop abruptly without medical advice.

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness/sedation (especially initially), dizziness/lightheadedness (orthostatic hypotension), headache, weakness/fatigue, dry mouth, nasal congestion/stuffy nose, nausea, fluid retention/edema, or gastrointestinal upset. Less common: rash, constipation, or altered taste.

Package Type:

• Blister pack

Storage Advice:

• Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (15–30°C or below 25–30°C), protected from light and moisture. Keep in original packaging with tight closure. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Prescription only; requires medical supervision and regular monitoring (e.g., blood pressure, liver function, blood counts). Contraindicated in active liver disease, history of methyldopa-related liver disorders, or hypersensitivity. Caution in renal impairment (dose adjustment needed), depression history, or pheochromocytoma. Risk of hemolytic anemia, liver damage, or positive Coombs test—periodic blood tests recommended. May cause drowsiness—avoid driving or operating machinery until effects known. Safe in pregnancy (often preferred for gestational hypertension) but consult doctor if breastfeeding. Report yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine, persistent fatigue, fever, or unusual bruising immediately (signs of serious liver/blood issues).

Product Substitutes:

• Generic Methyldopa 500 mg Tablets (various brands)
• Hy-po-tone 500 mg Tablets (or similar generics in some markets)
• Other centrally acting antihypertensives like clonidine (Catapres)
• Alternatives for hypertension: Labetalol, nifedipine, hydralazine, or beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol) depending on condition (e.g., pregnancy-safe options)

Manufacturer/Marketer:

• Aspen Pharmacare

Country of Origin:

• United States