Labetalol Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Labetalol Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Labetalol HCl
Drug Class
- Beta blocker
- Alpha-1 blocker
Chemical Formula
C19H24N2O3.HCl
Molecular Weight
364.86 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks beta-1, beta-2, and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors
Indications
- Hypertension
- Hypertensive emergencies
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- Oral: 100-400 mg twice daily
- IV: 20 mg over 2 minutes, may repeat or increase every 10 minutes
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower starting doses recommended due to age-related changes in metabolism
Side Effects
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
Contraindications
- Bradycardia
- Heart block greater than first degree
- Cardiogenic shock
Pregnancy Category
- C
Lactation Safety
- Considered compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Digoxin
- Calcium channel blockers
- MAO inhibitors
Overdose Symptoms
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Cardiac arrest
Antidote for Overdose
- Glucagon
- Intravenous fluids
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed orally
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier, placenta, and is found in breast milk
- Metabolism: Metabolized extensively in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily via urine (55-60%) and feces (40-45%)
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with bronchial asthma
- Monitor for heart failure exacerbation
Warnings
- Abrupt withdrawal may worsen angina or cause myocardial infarction
- Do not use in patients with pheochromocytoma unless alpha blockade is established first
Others
- May be used for off-label indications such as migraines or anxiety disorders