Labetalol
Uses of Labetalol
Labetalol is commonly used as emergency treatment of high Blood Pressure (hypertension), hypertension in pregnancy, Hypertension following a Heart Attack, hypotensive anaesthesia, third line treatment for hypertension
How Labetalol Works
Labetalol is an antihypertensive agent. It inhibits adrenergic stimulation of receptors within the myocardium, bronchial and vascular smooth muscle.
Side Effects of Labetalol
Hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itchy skin, breathless), Dizziness, Heart failure, Raised liver function test, Erectile dysfunction, Ejaculation failure, Difficulty to micturate
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
No dosage adjustment is required including during haemodialysis/peritoneal dialysis.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Labetalol. Taking Labetalol with alcohol may have additive effects in central nervous system. It further increases the risk of CNS depression.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Labetalol may be unsafe to use during pregnancy as it crosses the placental barrier. There is no teratogenic effects have been demonstrated in animal studies. Nevertheless, Labetalol should only be used during the first trimester of pregnancy if the potential benefits are likely to outweigh the possible risk to the foetus. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
There may be occasional dizziness and fatigue experienced when driving. Therefore, do not drive unless well.
Liver Use With Care
In patients with liver disease, Labetalol should be used with caution. It should be stopped immediately if there is liver injury or the patient is injured.
Lactation Not Advisable
Labetalol is unsafe to be used during lactation as it is excreted in human milk. There are risks of sudden death syndrome, Diarrhea, hypoglycemia although very rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
