Methyldopa is a centrally acting antihypertensive agent primarily used to manage high blood pressure, including in pregnancy-induced hypertension (preeclampsia). It works by stimulating central alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to decreased peripheral vascular resistance and lowered blood pressure. First synthesized in the 1960s, methyldopa quickly gained prominence as one of the first safe and effective antihypertensive drugs suitable for use during pregnancy, distinguishing it from other agents that posed fetal risks. Over the decades, it has remained an important treatment option for managing hypertension in specific populations, valued for its safety profile, efficacy, and long-standing clinical use in both general and obstetric medicine.
