Labetalol

Supportive Care

What is labetalol?

Labetalol (also called Trandate® or Normodyne®) is an antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering medicine) known as a beta-blocker. It reduces the workload of the heart and helps it to beat more regularly. It lowers blood pressure in many different ways. High blood pressure levels can damage kidneys and may lead to a stroke or heart failure. Labetalol is available in these forms:

100 mg and 200 mg tablets taken by mouth
A liquid suspension to be taken by mouth that is made by the pharmacy
A clear liquid given by vein (IV)

Possible side effects

Low blood pressure (especially with IV form)
Unusual weak or tired feeling
Headache
Impotence (sexual problems)
Nausea
Decreased liver function
Diarrhea
Dry itching skin
Dry or burning eyes
Trouble sleeping, nightmares
Feeling depressed

Call the doctor right away if you have any of the following side effects:

Trouble breathing, wheezing
Irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or palpitations
Feeling dizzy and lightheaded or fainting spells
Slow heart rate
Swelling of the legs or ankles
Vomiting
Increased thirst
Skin rash
More urine passed than usual
Dark yellow or brown urine
Yellowing of eyes or skin
Cold, tingling, or numb hands or feet
Tingling of the scalp or skin

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take labetalol will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.

This medicine may cause you to feel dizzy and lightheaded. Do not operate heavy equipment or drive a motor vehicle until you see how this medicine will affect you. To avoid feeling dizzy or having fainting spells do not sit up or stand up too quickly.
You or your nurse should check your blood pressure and heart rate regularly while you are taking labetalol. Your doctor will tell you what to do if your blood pressure level is low or high. Your dose of labetalol may change based on your blood pressure level.
If your blood pressure is above _____________ or below__________ call your doctor right away. If your heart rate is _____________ call your doctor right away.
Do not suddenly stop taking labetalol. This can lead to serious heart-related problems. Ask your doctor how you should gradually reduce the dose before you stop taking this medicine.
Labetalol may affect the way some medicines work. Some medicines may also affect the way labetalol works. These medicines include:
- Other blood pressure medicines
- Medicines for colds and coughs
- Medicines for breathing problems
- Some medicines used for depression
- Nitroglycerin
- Verapamil
- Diltiaziem
- Cimetidine
- Diuretics
- Alcohol
Always tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines or if you start taking any new medicine while you are taking labetalol.
If you have a sudden onset of severe diarrhea or vomiting or if you sweat a lot, tell your doctor right away. This loss of body fluid may decrease your blood pressure.
Labetalol may affect your blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes. Your blood sugar level should be monitored while you are taking labetalol.
If the pharmacy makes a liquid suspension of labetalol, you should shake the suspension well before taking the medicine. Refrigerate the liquid. Discard the medicine when the date on the label expires.

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency.

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2024