Indications 

Aldomet is a prescribed medication for hypertension, either as a monotherapy or in combination with other medications. 

As an antihypertensive medicine, Aldomet reduces specific chemicals in the blood, which causes relaxation and widening of blood vessels, facilitating easier blood flow throughout the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Aldomet and with each prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or concerns. 

Aldomet dosage is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. It is usually taken 2 to 4 times a day, as directed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

Begin taking this medication or any increased dose in the evening to minimize side effects. Take the larger dose at bedtime if the doses are not equal. 

Take Aldomet regularly around the same time each day, exactly as directed by your doctor. Avoid taking more or less than prescribed, and do not take it more frequently. 

Do not discontinue Aldomet treatment without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well. Abrupt cessation can raise your blood pressure and cause side effects; your doctor must gradually reduce your dosage. 

Long-term use of Aldomet may require dose adjustment or adding another medication. Consult your doctor if Aldomet loses effectiveness. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Aldomet. If any of them last or worsen, tell your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Drowsiness 
• Weakness 
• Headache 

Serious Side Effects 

• Feeling lightheaded, potentially leading to fainting 
• Pale or yellowed skin, dark-colored urine, fever, confusion, or weakness 
• Uncontrolled or involuntary muscle movements 
• Signs of heart problems: 
  • Swelling 
  • Rapid weight gain 
  • Shortness of breath 
• Signs of liver or pancreas problems: 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Upper stomach pain (spreading to the back) 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Fast heart rate 
  • Dark urine 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the serious symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Aldomet rarely causes severe allergic reactions. However, seek emergency medical help if you experience the following signs of an allergic reaction: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling, especially of the throat, tongue, and face 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Aldomet. Notify your doctor if any unlisted effects are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Aldomet, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to methyldopa, any medications, or any ingredients present in Aldomet tablets. 

To ensure Aldomet is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis 
• Anemia (low red blood cell count) 
• Heart failure 
• Pheochromocytoma, 
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency 

Many medicines may interact with Aldomet, including iron products (such as ferrous sulfate and ferrous gluconate) and lithium. To minimize the risk of such drug interactions, disclose to your healthcare provider all your current medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Concomitant use of MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) and Aldomet can lead to a severe (potentially fatal) drug interaction. Avoid MAO inhibitors for two weeks before and during treatment with this medication; consult your doctor to determine when to begin or end this medication. 

Review the labels of all your medications, including allergy or cough-and-cold products, as they may contain ingredients that induce drowsiness. Consult your pharmacist about the safe use of these products.  

Be mindful to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take other products that induce drowsiness, including: 

• Alcohol 
• Marijuana (cannabis) 
• Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) 
• Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem) 
• Muscle relaxants 
• Opioid pain relievers (e.g., codeine). 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are using cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen, for some of them may contain ingredients that can increase blood pressure. Inquire about how to take them safely. 

Aldomet can affect specific laboratory tests (such as urine catecholamine test), leading to erroneous results. Ensure that all healthcare providers and laboratory personnel know your use of this medication. 

Aldomet may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery for 48-72 hours after starting this medication or after a dose increase. 

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be, as the potential effects of Aldomet on a fetus are uncertain. 

Methyldopa can pass into breast milk but is unlikely to pose harm to a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding when taking this medication.