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Effects of Methyldopa on Thiazide-Induced Changes in Renal Hemodynamics and Plasma Renin Activity

Norman M. Kaplan, MD

Arch Intern Med. 1975;135(5):660-663.

Abstract
The rise in plasma renin activity (PRA) that accompanies thiazide diuretic therapy of hypertension may interfere with therapeutic effectiveness and contribute to hypokalemia. In an attempt to provide a basis for the previously empiric use of antihypertensive drugs, 20 hypertensive subjects were given a diuretic alone for three weeks and a diuretic plus methyldopa, which lowers PRA, for three weeks. The thiazide-induced rise in PRA was blunted by the methyldopa, while blood pressure fell even more and renal function was well maintained. The combination of a renin-lowering drug and a diuretic is rational and effective therapy for hypertension.

Author Affiliations
From the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas.

Footnotes
Received for publication Oct 16,1974; accepted Nov 26.

Reprint requests to 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75235 (Dr. Kaplan).

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