Methyldopa Oral, Intravenous and Ocaliva

• Generic Name: methyldopa
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Aldomet

Methyldopa belongs to the general class of medicines called antihypertensives. It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

High blood pressure adds to the work load of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.

Methyldopa works by controlling impulses along certain nerve pathways. As a result, it relaxes blood vessels so that blood passes through them more easily. This helps to lower blood pressure.

Methyldopa is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: obeticholic acid
• Dosage Forms: tablet, film coated
• Other Brand Names: Ocaliva

Ocaliva (obeticholic acid) is a prescription medicine used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). This medicine is sometimes used together with another drug called ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA).

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease that gradually destroys bile ducts in the liver. These ducts deliver bile to the small intestines, to help your body digest fats and nutrients. When PBC destroys these ducts, the bile stays in your liver and damages its cells. This can lead to cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver failure. PBC is a progressive disease that may have no symptoms for many years. Treating PBC can help keep the liver functioning normally.

Ocaliva was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on an "accelerated" basis. In clinical studies, some people with PBC responded to this medicine, but further studies are needed.

It is not known if taking Ocaliva will improve your chance of survival or improve your symptoms of PBC.