Metyrosine

Definition

A methylated tyrosine, a catecholamine synthesis antagonist with antihypertensive property. Metyrosine competitively inhibits tyrosine 3-monooxygenase, an enzyme that activates molecular oxygen to catalyze the hydroxylation of tyrosine to dihydroxyphenylalanine (Dopa), an intermediate to catecholamine (dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine) production. This agent reduces the elevated levels of catecholamines associated with pheochromocytoma, thereby preventing hypertension.

Also known as Alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine, Demser, L-588357-0, methyl-tyrosine, Metirosine, METYROSINE, MK-781 — per NCIT

Also identified as

• ATC C02KB01 per RXNORM
• NCIT NCIT:C998 per NCIT
• SCTID 387495008 per RXNORM
• SCTID 86131002 per RXNORM
• UNII DOQ0J0TPF7 per RXNORM

Indications