METHYLDOPATE Meaning and
Definition
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Methyldopate is a term used in pharmacology and medicine to refer to a medication known as methyldopa methyl ester. This compound is derived from methyldopa, a medication primarily used for the treatment of high blood pressure.
Also known as methyldopamine, Methyldopate is a prodrug of methyldopa, meaning it undergoes a chemical conversion in the body to release the active form of methyldopa. This conversion occurs through ester hydrolysis, where the ester group is cleaved, resulting in the release of methyldopa.
Once methyldopa is formed through this process, it acts as a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. This means that it works by stimulating certain receptors in the brain, leading to a reduction in sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system. Ultimately, this decreases peripheral vascular resistance and results in a reduction in blood pressure.
Methyldopate is available in oral tablet form and is typically prescribed to individuals with essential hypertension or gestational hypertension. It is also sometimes used in the treatment of hypertensive emergencies.
As with any medication, Methyldopate may have potential side effects such as sedation, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, or diarrhea. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting the dosage of this medication, as individual responses may vary and require careful monitoring.
Common Misspellings for METHYLDOPATE
- nethyldopate
- kethyldopate
- jethyldopate
- mwthyldopate
- msthyldopate
- mdthyldopate
- mrthyldopate
- m4thyldopate
- m3thyldopate
- merhyldopate
- mefhyldopate
- meghyldopate
- meyhyldopate
- me6hyldopate
- me5hyldopate
- metgyldopate
- metbyldopate
- metnyldopate
- metjyldopate
- metuyldopate
Etymology of METHYLDOPATE
The word "Methyldopate" is derived from the combination of two components: "Methyldopa" and the suffix "-ate".
1. Methyldopa: Methyldopa is a medication primarily used for treating high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a class of drugs called alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, which work by stimulating specific receptors in the brain and reducing nerve signals in certain blood vessels, resulting in lowered blood pressure. Methyldopa was first synthesized in 1961 and marketed for clinical use in 1962.
The term "Methyldopa" is composed of two parts:
- "Methyl": Derived from the word "methyl", which refers to a chemical group consisting of one carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (-CH3).
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