Metyrosine
Metyrosine is an antihypertensive medication that works by inhibiting tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine synthesis. It is primarily used to manage symptoms in patients with pheochromocytoma and may be used as adjunctive therapy or preoperative preparation.
An antihypertensive agent that reduces catecholamine production for managing pheochromocytoma-related hypertension and symptoms.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C02KB01
- RxNorm
- 266604
- Generic
- Metyrosine
- Class
- atc-c02
- Brands
- Demser
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Management of pheochromocytoma when surgery is contraindicated or as preoperative preparation; adjunctive treatment for essential hypertension in rare cases where other medications are insufficient.
Inhibits tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis pathway of catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine), thereby reducing excessive catecholamine production that causes hypertensive symptoms.
Requires adequate fluid intake to prevent crystalluria; may cause significant sedation and orthostatic hypotension; should not be discontinued abruptly; regular monitoring of blood pressure and cardiac function recommended during treatment.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy