Main content

Health Information

Methyldopa

Drug Information

Methyldopa is a drug used to lower blood pressure in people with Reference hypertension (high blood pressure).

Common brand names:

Aldomet

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

Reference What Are Nutrient Interactions

Types of interactions: Beneficial Adverse Check

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

Reference Vitamin B12

Methyldopa can decrease vitamin B12 levels, thus increasing the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.¹

The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Reduce Side Effects

none

Support Medicine

none

Reduces Effectiveness

Reference Iron

Iron supplements have been found to decrease methyldopa absorption.² ^{, 3} Taking methyldopa two hours before or after iron-containing products can help avoid this interaction.

Potential Negative Interaction

Sodium

Excess dietary sodium (salt) intake can cause Reference fluid retention and interfere with the blood pressure lowering action of methyldopa.⁴ Reducing the use of table salt and heavily salted foods during methyldopa therapy reduces the likelihood of this interference.

Explanation Required

none

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.

References

1. Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept Press, 1998, 74.

2. Campbell NR, Hasinoff BB. Iron supplements: A common cause of drug interactions. Brit J Clin Pharmacol 1991;31:251–5.

3. 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.

4. Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept Press, 1998, 171–2 .

Last Review: 11-07-2012

Please read the Reference disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article. The Aisle7 knowledgebase does not contain every possible interaction.

Reference Learn more about Aisle7, the company.

The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.