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Edward D. Frohlich

Arch Intern Med. 1980;140(7):954-959.

Abstract

Methyldopa, an adrenergic-inhibiting compound, has been used for over 25 years as a safe and effective antihypertensive agent. The postulated mechanisms for the antihypertensive action of this compound have been varied and parallel our broadening knowledge of the role of the adrenergic nervous system in controlling arterial pressure. This review outlines the mechanisms of adrenergic control of the circulation and how the proposed mechanisms of action of methyldopa (ie, dopa decarboxylation, false neurotransmission, inhibition of renin release, and stimulation of receptor sites in the brain) seem to account for the depressor action of the drug. Physiologic effects as well as immunologic and other clinical effects are also discussed.

(Arch Intern Med 140:954-959, 1980)

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THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES

Use of Centrally Acting Sympatholytic Agents in the Management of Hypertension
Oster and Epstein
Arch Intern Med 1991;151:1638-1644.
ABSTRACT