Uses of undefined

Labetalol is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and can also be prescribed for certain heart conditions. This drug is particularly useful in managing hypertensive emergencies, such as crises or severe hypertension during pregnancy.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

The medicine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered as an intravenous injection into a vein and is also available in tablet form. Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Contact your physician immediately if you experience allergies to this drug and its ingredients. Labetalol may worsen bronchospasm and respiratory function in individuals with asthma or severe COPD. It should be mainly used with caution in such cases. This drug is primarily used to lower blood pressure but can also affect heart rate. It may cause bradycardia (slow heart rate), especially in individuals with preexisting heart rhythm disorders. Regular monitoring of blood pressure levels and heart rate is important during treatment. Inform your doctor or surgeon about the drug you are taking before surgery. This drug may interact with anesthesia and other medications used during surgery, potentially affecting blood pressure control.

Precautions

Individuals with impaired liver function may experience increased drug levels as the liver metabolizes this medicine. Dose adjustments may be necessary for these conditions. Labetolol may affect blood sugar levels and can mask some signs of low blood sugar. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is important for diabetic patients taking this medicine, and adjustments in diabetes medications may be required. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while on the medicine, as this drug passes into the breast milk. It is highly advised to inform your physician if you take other medications before using over-the-counter or herbal products. Your doctor will evaluate the risk of interaction with this medication.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Labetalol are headache, dizziness, tiredness, stuffy nose, tingling of the scalp, urination difficulties, not being able to ejaculate, vomiting, nausea, and indigestion.

Word Of Advice

Labetalol can cause a drop in blood pressure when changing positions (orthostatic hypotension), leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. To minimize this, rise slowly from lying down or sitting positions. Along with medication, lifestyle modifications can help manage blood pressure. These may include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco products.

Frequently Asked Question

• Are there any side effects associated with Labetalol?
• Like any medication, Labetalol can cause side effects. Common side effects may include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and low blood pressure. This formulation may also cause serious side effects, such as slow heart rate, shortness of breath, or allergic reactions. Reporting any unusual or severe side effects to a healthcare professional is important.

• What is the mechanism of action of Labetalol?
• Labetalol works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the body. It blocks beta-1 and beta-2 receptors, leading to reduced heart rate, decreased force of contraction, and dilation of blood vessels, resulting in lowered blood pressure. 

• Can Labetalol be abruptly stopped?
• Labetalol should only be abruptly stopped by consulting a healthcare professional. Sudden discontinuation of beta-blockers can result in a rebound effect and potentially worsen symptoms. If you feel to change or stop the dosage of this drug, it should be done under the knowledge of your healthcare provider.

• Can a diabetic patient take Labetalol?
• Yes, diabetic patients can take Labetalol. This medicine is not known to directly affect blood sugar levels or interfere with the management of diabetes. It is commonly prescribed to individuals with hypertension, including those with diabetes.

• What are the available Labetalol doses?
• Labetalol is available in different doses in tablet form and for intravenous (IV) administration. For oral tablets, the common doses are 100mg, 200mg, and 300mg. The IV dose can be 5 mg/mL or 20 mg/mL concentration.