Labetalol

Uses

This medication is used to treat the following conditions:

• hypertension
• pre-eclampsia
• angina

IUPAC name: 2-hydroxy-5-[1-hydroxy-2-(4-phenylbutan-2-ylamino)ethyl]benzamide

Drug class: Antihypertensive ( β+α Adrenergic blockers)

Route of administration: Oral; intravenous

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an OTC drug? NO

Mechanism of action

Labetalol lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the heart rate by inhibiting alpha and beta receptors. This reduces the risk of future heart attacks and strokes.

Side effects

Nausea, headache, dizziness, weakness, unusual tiredness, tingling scalp, and nasal congestion are some of the common side effects of labetalol.

Precautions

The following precautions should be taken before using this medication, and notify your doctor:

1. If you are allergic to this drug or any other medication, or if you have any other type of allergy.
2. If you are currently taking any other medications (including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements),
3. If you have a history of cardiac, renal, or hepatic disease, diabetes, asthma, lung disease, severe allergies, or hyperthyroidism,
4. Avoid drinking alcohol because it induces drowsiness.
5. If you are undergoing surgery

Use of labetalol in pregnancy:

This medication can be used in pregnancy after the completion of the first trimester.