Methyldopa hepatotoxicity in pregnancy: A case report

A case of hepatotoxicity in a multiparous Native woman, who was begun on a regimen of methyldopa for control of chronic hypertension, is described. The patient was first seen for clinical evidence of hepatotoxicity approximately 3 weeks after initiation of treatment. At presentation the aspartate aminotransferase level was 1800 IU/L and alanine amniotransferase was 2415 IU/L. There was also a significant prolongation of clotting time, which required therapy. Resolution of symptoms occurred after cessation of the medication. Although methyldopa is considered to have a wide margin of safety in the treatment of chronic hypertension in pregnancy, potentially serious adverse effects can occur. It is important to monitor serum aminotransferase levels after initiation of methyldopa therapy.