Class
Description
Onset and Duration
Indications
Contraindications
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
How Supplied
Dosage and Administration
Special Considerations
Alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocker
Labetalol is a competitive alpha1-receptor blocker as well as a nonselective beta-receptor blocker used to lower blood pressure in a hypertensive crisis. Because of alpha- and beta-blocking properties, blood pressure is reduced without reflex tachycardia, and total peripheral resistance is decreased without a significant alteration in cardiac output. In emergency care, labetalol is administered intravenously.
Hypertension
Bronchial asthma
Congestive heart failure
Second- and third-degree heart block
Bradycardia
Cardiogenic shock
Headache
Dizziness
Ventricular dysrhythmias
Hypotension
Dyspnea
Allergic reaction
Facial flushing
Diaphoresis
Postural hypotension
Bronchodilator effects of beta-adrenergic agonists may be blunted bv labetalol.
Nitroglycerin may augment hypotensive effects.
100 mg in 20 ml of solvent ampule (5 mg/ml)
Pregnancy safety: Category C.
Blood pressure, pulse rate, ECG should be continuously monitored. Observe for signs of congestive heart failure, bradycardia, bronchospasm. Labetalol should only be administered with the patient in a supine position.