methyldopa /-dō″pə/ , an alpha2 receptor agonist that acts in the central nervous system to decrease sympathetic nervous system outflow. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for the reduction of hypertension in moderate to severe cases. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, liver dysfunction, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are liver toxicity and blood dyscrasias. Sedation, dry mouth, nasal stuffiness, and postural hypotension may occur.
