Pindolol

What is Pindolol?

Pindolol, a type of medication known as a beta-blocker, is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is effective alone or combined with other high blood pressure medications, particularly with a thiazide-type diuretic. Beta-blockers decrease the force and rate of heart contractions.

What is the most important information I should know about Pindolol?

Pindolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension. To be sure this medication is helping your condition; your blood pressure will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

You must take pindolol regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of pindolol; you may initially feel tired. You must continue taking pindolol even if you are feeling well. Pindolol does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control. Pindolol should not be stopped suddenly. It can cause increased chest pain and heart attack. Dosage should be gradually reduced.

If you need to have any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using pindolol. Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using pindolol.

Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to pindolol; it may cause dizziness or lightheadedness.

Pindolol may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Alcohol, other medications, hot weather, exercise, and fever can increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Also, sit or lie down at the first sign of dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness.

Pindolol may mask signs of low blood sugar such as a rapid heartbeat. Other symptoms, such as sweating, may still occur. Pindolol may affect blood sugar levels. Your doctor may need to change the dose of diabetes medicine you take. Check blood glucose levels regularly.

Who should not take Pindolol?

If you have bronchial asthma; severe congestive heart failure; inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system (cardiogenic shock); heart block (a heart irregularity); or a severely slow heartbeat, you should not take pindolol. You should also not take pindolol if you are allergic to it or any ingredient in the medication.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Pindolol?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with pindolol. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have: A heart problem such as heart block; A thyroid disorder; asthma; bronchitis, emphysema, or other lung or breathing diseases; emphysema; depression; diabetes; liver or kidney disease; low blood pressure; myasthenia gravis; pheochromocytoma ; problems with circulation such as Raynaud's syndrome; sick sinus syndrome; slow heart rate or congestive heart failure.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Your doctor will determine the dosage according to your specific needs.

The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams (mg), taken 2 times per day, alone or with other high blood pressure medication. Your blood pressure should be lower in 1 to 2 weeks. If blood pressure is not reduced sufficiently within 3 to 4 weeks, your doctor may increase your total daily dosage by 10 mg at a time, at 3 to 4 week intervals, up to a maximum of 60 mg a day.

The safety and effectiveness of pindolol have not been established in children.

How should I take Pindolol?

Pindolol can be taken with or without food.

Take pindolol exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms have disappeared. Take pindolol at the same time every day. Try not to miss any doses. If you do not take pindolol regularly, your condition may worsen.

What should I avoid while taking Pindolol?

Pindolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which could increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking pindolol. Avoid standing or sitting up too quickly, especially when you first start taking pindolol.

Do not suddenly stop taking pindolol. Do not stop taking the drug after you feel better.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Pindolol?

If pindolol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining pindolol with the following: airway-opening drugs such as albuterol; blood pressure drugs such as reserpine; beta-receptor agonists such as dobutamine, dopamine, or norepinephrine; cimetidine; clonidine; digoxin ; epinephrine ; insulin or oral antidiabetic agents such as glyburide; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen; ritodrine; theophylline; epinephrine; indomethacin; caclium channel blockers such as nifedipine and verapamil; thioames such as tapazole; thioridazine; and verapamil.

What are the possible side effects of Pindolol?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal discomfort, chest pain, difficult or labored breathing, dizziness, fatigue, joint pain, muscle pain or cramps, nausea, nervousness, strange dreams, swelling due to fluid retention, tingling or pins and needles, trouble sleeping, weakness

Can I receive Pindolol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of pindolol during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Pindolol appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If pindolol is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with pindolol is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Pindolol?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less than 4 hours away, skip the missed dose and take pindolol at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How should I store Pindolol?

Store at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom.