Methyldopa

Definition

A phenylalanine derivative and an aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor with antihypertensive activity. Methyldopa is a prodrug and is metabolized in the central nervous system. The antihypertensive action of methyldopa seems to be attributable to its conversion into alpha-methylnorepinephrine, which is a potent alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that binds to and stimulates potent central inhibitory alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. This results in a decrease in sympathetic outflow and decreased blood pressure.

Also known as 3-Hydroxy-alpha-methyl-L-tyrosine, Aldomet, Amodopa, Dopamet, L-2-Amino-2-methyl-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)propionic Acid, Levo-3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-2-methylalanine, METHYLDOPA — per NCIT

Also identified as

• ATC C02AB01 per RXNORM
• NCIT NCIT:C47616 per NCIT
• SCTID 373542000 per RXNORM
• SCTID 84078002 per RXNORM
• UNII 56LH93261Y per RXNORM

Indications