Key result
Methyldopa (500-2250 mg daily) lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure by a mean of 13 (95% CI 6-20) and 8 (95% CI 4-13) mmHg compared to placebo in patients with primary hypertension.
Why the study?
Does methyldopa reduce blood pressure and improve clinical outcomes compared to placebo in patients with primary hypertension?
Population
12 RCTs pooling 595 patients with primary hypertension (excluding secondary or gestational hypertension).
Comparison
Methyldopa at doses ranging from 500-2250 mg… vs Placebo.
Design
Meta-analysis
Authors
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Supports BP lowering with methyldopa in primary hypertension; leaves open effects on mortality and morbidity.
Meta-Analysis (n=595)
Does methyldopa reduce blood pressure and improve clinical outcomes compared to placebo in patients with primary hypertension?
Effect estimate: Mean reduction 13/8 mmHg (95% CI 6-20 / 4-13)
Methyldopa effectively lowers blood pressure in primary hypertension, but there is a lack of evidence regarding its impact on clinical outcomes such as mortality and morbidity.
Mah et al. (2009) conducted a meta-analysis in primary hypertension (n=595). Methyldopa vs. placebo was evaluated on blood pressure (Mean reduction 13/8 mmHg, 95% CI 6-20 / 4-13). Methyldopa (500-2250 mg daily) lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure by a mean of 13 (95% CI 6-20) and 8 (95% CI 4-13) mmHg compared to placebo in patients with primary hypertension.
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