Trandate

Common Name: labetalol HCl

How does Trandate work?

Labetalol belongs to a class of medications called beta-blockers. It is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. It helps to decrease blood pressure by reducing the workload on the heart. Labetalol may be used alone, but is often used in combination with additional high blood pressure medications called diuretics (water pills). The injectable form of labetalol is used for emergency treatment of severe high blood pressure. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Trandate?

The recommended starting dose of labetalol is 100 mg twice daily after food. Your doctor may adjust the dose of the medication once or twice a week according to your needs and response to the medication. The usual maintenance dose ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg twice daily. The maximum recommended dose is 600 mg twice daily. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without first talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is within eight hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly without checking with your doctor first. Stopping the medication suddenly after you have been taking it for a while may cause unpleasant and potentially harmful effects.

What form(s) does Trandate come in?

Tablet, Injectable

What should I NOT take with Trandate?

Labetalol should not be taken by people who: are allergic to labetalol or any ingredients of the medication have a severely slow heart rate have serious heart block have uncontrolled congestive heart failure have very low blood pressure have asthma or a history of obstructive airway disease are in cardiogenic shock

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Trandate?

Stopping the medication: This medication should not be stopped suddenly by people with angina. There have been reports of severe worsening of angina, heart attack, or abnormal heart rhythms occurring in people with angina pectoris who have abruptly stopped taking their medication. Diabetes: The signs of low blood sugar may not be as noticeable when taking labetalol. People with diabetes who take insulin or other medications that work by reducing the blood sugar should be cautious and monitor blood sugar carefully while taking labetalol. Breathing conditions: People with asthma and certain other breathing problems should not take labetalol. Dryness of eyes: Dry eyes have been reported with the use of this medication. Dizziness: Move slowly when moving from a lying or sitting position to a standing position as dizziness may occur, especially when this medication is first being started. Hyperthyroidism (high level of thyroid hormones): People with hyperthyroidism should be cautious while taking labetalol as it may reduce the symptoms of this condition and give a false impression of improvement. Stopping the medication suddenly could worsen this condition. Liver disease: Lower doses of labetalol may be required in people with liver disease. Skin conditions: Various skin rashes have been reported with the use of this medication. Pregnancy: Labetalol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the mother and unborn baby. Breast-feeding: Labetalol passes into breast milk. It should not be used by nursing women. If the medication is considered essential for the health of a woman who is breast-feeding, she will need to stop nursing. Children: The safety and effectiveness of labetalol have not been established for use by children. Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the side effects of labetalol and may require lower doses.