Methyldopate hydrochloride is the ethyl ester prodrug of methyldopa, primarily used for the intravenous treatment of severe hypertension, especially in pregnant women with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. It is rapidly hydrolyzed in the body to active methyldopa, which acts as a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. This reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, decreases peripheral vascular resistance, and lowers blood pressure. Due to its established safety profile in pregnancy, it is preferred over other antihypertensives in obstetric settings. Administered intravenously, it provides a rapid onset of action (within minutes) and is suitable for hypertensive emergencies.