Methyldopa
Common brand names:
AldometMethyldopa is a drug used to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension (high blood pressure).
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods
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Negative Interactions
2-
Potential Negative Interaction
Methyldopa
Sodium
Excess dietary sodium (salt) intake can cause fluid retention and interfere with the blood pressure lowering action of methyldopa. Reducing the use of table salt and heavily salted foods during methyldopa therapy reduces the likelihood of this interference.
SodiumMethyldopa- Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept Press, 1998, 171-2 .
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Reduces Effectiveness
Methyldopa
Iron
Iron supplements have been found to decrease methyldopa absorption. Taking methyldopa two hours before or after iron-containing products can help avoid this interaction.
IronMethyldopa- Campbell NR, Hasinoff BB. Iron supplements: A common cause of drug interactions. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1991;31:251-5.
- Campbell N, Paddock V, Sundaram R. Alteration of methyldopa absorption, metabolism, and blood pressure control caused by ferrous sulfate and gluconate. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1988;43:381-6.
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Supportive Interactions
1-
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
Methyldopa
Vitamin B12
Methyldopa can decrease vitamin B12 levels, thus increasing the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12Methyldopa- Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept Press, 1998, 74.
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The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.