Methyldopa exhibits antihypertensive and sedative activities. In circulation, methyldopa is metabolized to α-methylnorepinephrine by dopamine β-hydroxylase, which activates α2-adrenergic receptors, acting as a sympatholytic and inhibiting the sympathetic nervous system. This compound also inhibits DOPA decarboxylase, decreasing production of dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. In animal models, methyldopa exhibits NO-dependent sedative activity similar to that of clonidine.
| Cas No. | 41372-08-1 |
|---|---|
| Purity | ≥98% |
| Formula | C10H13NO4 • 3/2H2O |
| Formula Wt. | 238.24 |
| Chemical Name | 3-Hydroxy-α-methyl-L-tyrosine sesquihydrate |
| IUPAC Name | (2S)-2-amino-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-methylpropanoic acid;trihydrate |
| Synonym | Methyl-L-DOPA; MK-351; Hyperax |
| Melting Point | >300°C (dec.) |
| Solubility | Soluble in dilute mineral acids and water (10mg/mL, pH 5.0). Insoluble in organic solvents. |
| Appearance | White or yellowish white, crystalline Powder |
| Store Temp | Ambient |
|---|---|
| Ship Temp | Ambient |
| Info Sheet | M1779 Info Sheet PDF |
|---|
Sucak A, Kanat-Pektas M, Gungor T, et al. Leptin levels and antihypertensive treatment in preeclampsia. Singapore Med J. 2010 Jan;51(1):39-43. PMID: 20200774.
Soares de Moura R, Rios AA, et al. The effects of nitric oxide synthase inhibitors on the sedative effect of clonidine. Anesth Analg. 2001 Nov;93(5):1217-21. PMID: 11682401.
