Methyldopa for Treatment of Hypertension

Abstract

Methyldopa is an enzyme inhibitor and an effective antihypertensive agent in man. In a study of 33 hypertensive patients, mean blood pressure levels were reduced more than 10% for the sitting position in 61%, and for the standing position in 71%. There were indications of liver damage in seven patients, probable drug fever in one, fluid retention in four, and aggravation of angina pectoris in two. The best indication for the use of methyldopa appeared to be renal insufficiency in hypertensive patients. The authors hesitate to advocate other than investigational use of this drug until the significance of its effects on the heart and liver are more clearly established.