Labetalol

Dosage Forms Available

• Labetalol is available as tablets (oral route) and injections (intravenous route).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Labetalol is meant for adult patients. It is not typically prescribed for children due to a lack of established safety and efficacy in this age group.

Contraindications

• Labetalol is contraindicated in patients with severe bradycardia (very slow heart rate).

• It is also not suitable for those with decompensated heart failure, where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively.

• Patients with cardiogenic shock, a serious condition where the heart suddenly cannot pump enough blood, should not take Labetalol.

• Those with severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease are advised against using this medicine.

• It is also contraindicated in individuals with untreated pheochromocytoma, a rare tumour of adrenal gland tissue.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Labetalol may interact with other antihypertensive agents (such as diuretics like furosemide or calcium channel blockers like amlodipine), beta-agonists (such as albuterol), and medications affecting heart rhythm (like digoxin). These interactions could impact the effectiveness and safety of blood pressure management.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Labetalol may lead to severe low blood pressure, extremely slow heart rate, difficulty in breathing, or even shock. Immediate medical intervention is crucial to manage these serious effects.

• If you miss a dose of Labetalol, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• If experiencing light-headedness or dizziness, it may help to lie down until these symptoms pass.

• Should nausea occur, taking this medicine with or just after food might help relieve this symptom.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Labetalol may cause dizziness or fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel safe to do so.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Labetalol is often used to manage high blood pressure during pregnancy; however, it should only be used when prescribed by a doctor considering its benefits against potential risks.

• Although small amounts of Labetalol can pass into breast milk, it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Nonetheless, consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with hepatic impairment should be cautious when using Labetalol due to its extensive metabolism in the liver. Dose adjustments or alternative treatments may be necessary.

• Individuals with a history of bronchospastic diseases such as asthma should avoid using Labetalol as it may worsen these conditions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Patients managing hypertension might benefit from reducing their salt intake. Consider adopting a low-sodium diet to help control blood pressure.

• Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure naturally along with medication. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

• Managing stress through meditation or yoga can also support blood pressure control.

• Consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables which are rich in potassium can assist in balancing sodium levels within the body and aid in lowering high blood pressure.

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase blood pressure levels and reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications like Labetalol.