The generic name for Labetalol is simply "labetalol." When a medication is referred to by its generic name, it indicates the active pharmaceutical ingredient without any brand-specific designation. Labetalol is a medication used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances in the body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily through the body.
Labetalol is available in both oral tablet and intravenous (IV) forms. It is often used in clinical settings for hypertensive emergencies, such as severe hypertension or hypertensive crises during pregnancy. The medication is also prescribed for long-term management of hypertension in outpatient settings, where it may be taken daily as directed by a healthcare provider.
Common side effects of labetalol include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and headache. More serious side effects may include slow heart rate, difficulty breathing, swelling of the hands or feet, and signs of liver problems (e.g., dark urine, persistent nausea or vomiting, yellowing of the eyes or skin).
As with any medication, it is important for patients to take labetalol exactly as prescribed and to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with their healthcare provider.