Educational Medication GuidePrescription OnlyClass: Alpha/Beta Adrenergic Blocker

Labetalol

Generic Name: Labetalol

Common Brand Names: Trandate

Dosage Form:Tablet, Injection

Route:Oral, IV

Pregnancy Category:C

Last Reviewed:9/21/2026

Uses & Medical Indications

Hypertension, hypertensive emergencies

Medical Conditions Treated:

High blood pressure

Work Mechanism & Pharmacology

How It Works

Patient Overview of Work Mechanism

Labetalol relaxes tight blood vessels and supports regular cardiac pumping, keeping blood pressure within a healthy range and protecting heart health.

Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)

Labetalol lowers elevated blood pressure and relieves myocardial workload by inducing systemic vasodilation, antagonizing adrenergic sympathetic tone, or inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis.

Primary TargetLabetalol hydrochloride

Therapeutic FamilyAntihypertensive

Administration RouteOral, IV

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Adult Dosage

100 mg twice daily orally

Pediatric Dosage

1-3 mg/kg/day divided twice daily

Elderly / Geriatric Considerations

Start low

Maximum Dose Limit

2400 mg/day orally

Renal Impairment:

N/A

Hepatic Impairment:

Use with caution

Side Effects & Safety Warnings

Common Side Effects

Dizziness, fatigue, orthostatic hypotension

Serious Adverse Reactions

Hepatotoxicity, bronchospasm, heart block

Contraindications:

Asthma, severe bradycardia, cardiogenic shock

Important Warnings & Precautions:

May mask signs of hypoglycemia

Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Calcium channel blockers, cimetidine

Food & Dietary Interactions:

Food may increase bioavailability

Alcohol Interaction Warning:

Increases risk of hypotension

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety

Pregnancy Safety

Often used for pregnancy-induced hypertension

Breastfeeding / Lactation

Compatible

Patient Counseling & Practical Advice

How to Take:

Do not stop abruptly, change positions slowly

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

Take as soon as remembered

Recommended Monitoring & Lab Tests:

Blood pressure, heart rate

Emergency Medical Warning

When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention

Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.

Emergency Safety Protocol: If an intentional or accidental overdose is suspected, contact your regional Poison Control Center or emergency services immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless strictly advised by emergency healthcare personnel.

Educational Sources & References

Content for Labetalol was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:

Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines

Published by: Medi Info Hub TeamLast Updated: 10/19/2026

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.