Pharmacologic Substance
methyldopa
[ meth-uhl-doh-puh ]
Effect:
Decreased Blood Pressure; Decreased Central Nervous System Norepinephrine Activity
May Treat:
Hypertension
More Information:
ChemID; DrugBank; DailyMed; PDR
Definitions related to methyldopa:
  • 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.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • An alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that has both central and peripheral nervous system effects. Its primary clinical use is as an antihypertensive agent.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
Try this search on: Farlex, Merriam-Webster, Oxford Dictionary, or Wordnik

This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.