Labetalol hydrochloride

What is Labetalol hydrochloride?

Labetalol is used to treat high blood pressure. It can be used alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications, especially thiazide diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide and loop diuretics such as furosemide.

What is the most important information I should know about Labetalol hydrochloride?

Labetalol has caused severe liver damage in some people. Although this is a rare occurrence, if you develop any symptoms of abnormal liver function—itching, dark urine, continuing loss of appetite, yellow eyes and skin, or unexplained flu-like symptoms—contact your doctor immediately.

This medication may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar or alter blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, discuss this with your doctor.

Notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking labetalol if you have a medical emergency, and before you have surgery or dental treatment.

Who should not take Labetalol hydrochloride?

You should not take labetalol if you suffer from an obstructive airway disease such as bronchial asthma, congestive heart failure, heart block (a heart irregularity), inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system (cardiogenic shock), a severely slow heartbeat, or any other condition that causes severe and continued low blood pressure. Also, do not take this medication if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to labetalol or any of the product's ingredients.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially if you have a history of congestive heart failure, kidney or liver disease, asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or other bronchial diseases.

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 adjust the dosages to fit your needs. The usual starting dose is 100 milligrams, 2 times per day, alone or with a diuretic drug. After 2 to 3 days of checking your blood pressure, your doctor may begin increasing your dose by 100 milligrams, 2 times per day, at intervals of 2 to 3 days. The regular dose ranges from 200 to 400 milligrams, 2 times per day. Some people may require total daily dosage of as much as 1,200 to 2,400 milligrams, either alone or with a thiazide diuretic. In these cases, your doctor will observe the drug's effect and adjust your dose accordingly.

How should I take Labetalol hydrochloride?

Labetalol can be taken with or without food. The amount of labetalol absorbed into your bloodstream is actually increased by food.

What should I avoid while taking Labetalol hydrochloride?

Labetalol should not be stopped suddenly. This can cause chest pain and heart attack. Dosage should be gradually reduced.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Labetalol hydrochloride?

If labetalol 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 taking labetalol with the following: airway opening drugs such as albuterol, antidepressant medications such as amitriptyline, cimetidine, diabetes drugs such as glyburide, epinephrine, insulin, nitroglycerin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, ritodrine, and verapamil.

What are the possible side effects of Labetalol hydrochloride?

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: dizziness, fatigue, indigestion, nausea, stuffy nose

Can I receive Labetalol hydrochloride if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of labetalol during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Labetalol appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Labetalol hydrochloride?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Labetalol hydrochloride?

Store at room temperature.