ALDOMET (METHYLDOPA)

Aldomet Description

As a rule, if there is something going on in our body, we have symptoms. Fever, vomiting, rash, or swelling are symptoms that alert us to see a doctor. This is not the case with high blood pressure, unless you are experiencing a severe hypertensive crisis. Hypertension is usually diagnosed during a regular physical exam and comes as a surprise to many people.

Your doctor may prescribe Aldomet or generic Methyldopa and recommend a change of lifestyle that includes eating healthier, reducing stress, exercising, and no smoking. By following these instructions, you can decrease your risk of a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Aldomet Lowers Blood Pressure

When taken as directed, Aldomet works as a central agonist and targets receptors in your brain. This action prevents your brain from transmitting signals to your nervous system to speed up your heart rate and constrict your blood vessels. This reduces the workload placed on your heart and widens your blood vessels to allow for a better blood flow and, ultimately, lowers your blood pressure. There are no cures for hypertension, and no magic pills that will repair any damage already caused by the force of the blood flow on your arterial walls. Medications such as Aldomet can help decrease the dangers of hypertension.

Conditions Treated by Aldomet

The effects of high blood pressure can spiral out of control unless you are diagnosed and treated promptly. The force of the blood flow through your arteries can cause microscopic tears which then turn into scar tissue. The scar tissue then becomes like a latticework for plaque to hold onto as it builds up and causes narrowed arteries. The result is the inability of your arteries to deliver a sufficient flow of blood to other organs and tissue.

Now your heart has to work overtime to try and pump blood around your body. If its blood supply is impaired and it becomes starved for oxygen, your heart muscle can start to die. The pain you experience is possibly a heart attack and immediate treatment is required to prevent further damage.

Before Aldomet is Prescribed

Aldomet may be prescribed to hypertensive pregnant women who are reexamined after birth to evaluate the need for further medication. Ask your doctor about the safety of taking Aldomet if you become pregnant or are breast feeding during treatment. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. Your doctor can then determine if Aldomet is the right medicine for you.

Proper Use and Recommendations for Aldomet

Until you know how your body will react to taking Aldomet, avoid operating a vehicle, machinery, or other activities that may be considered unsafe if you are not alert and in control. If you are elderly, be aware of the symptoms of low blood pressure that could occur while taking Aldomet, such as clammy skin, blurry vision, or fatigue. This can also happen if you stop taking Aldomet suddenly.

Possible Side Effects of Aldomet

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Bloating or gas
• Stomach pain