The Use of Methyldopa in Schizophrenia: A Review and Comparative Study

Since methvldopa has been classified as a central nervous system depressant that produces tranquilization and reversible extrapyramidal symptoms, as well as reducing central amines, it has been suggested that it might have an antipsychotic potential. The authors' study showed a statistically significant deterioration in patients treated with methyldopa as compared with those treated with methotrimeprazine; however, five patients showed some improvement on methyldopa. It is suggested that methyldopa's lack of general antipsychotic activity is related to the reduced dopamine concentration in the brain instead of an increased turnover rate, which is characteristic of more effective neuroleptic drugs.