Methyldopa

Methyldopa is an α₂-adrenergic agonist. Methyldopa is a prodrug that, after entering the central nervous system, is converted by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase and dopamine β-hydroxylase into the active compound α-methylnorepinephrine. α-Methylnorepinephrine stimulates α₂-adrenergic receptors in the brainstem, particularly in the medullary vasomotor center, suppressing central sympathetic outflow and thereby reducing peripheral vascular resistance, heart rate, and cardiac output.