Labetalol works by affecting the response to nerve impulses in certain parts of the body, like the heart. It does this by slowing down your heart rate, and making your heart beat with less force. This makes it easier for your heart to pump your blood around your body, which lowers your blood pressure. When the blood pressure is lowered, the amount of blood and oxygen is increased to the heart .

High blood pressure is added workload to the heart and arteries. If this added  pressure continues for a long period of time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. With controlled treatment of high blood pressure these problems may be less likely to occur.

Emergency supplys of Labetalol:

Labetalol is a prescription only medicine and an Emergency Supply can only be issued if you are currently being prescribed this medication by your GP for high blood pressure.  You will need to fill out a questionnaire, which is then reviewed to make sure Labetalol is a suitable treatment for you. You will also need to upload proof that you have used this item before. If your order is approved, your Labetalol can be sent directly to you.

Warnings and Precautions

Always take this medication exactly as directed by a healthcare professional.

Keep out of sight and Reach of children.

If you are taking any new medications even over the counter medicines whilst taking Labetalol you should make your GP aware to prevent interactions.

Avoid or limit alcohol comsumption whilst taking Labetalol. (Alcohol with atenolol can cause you blood pressure to drop to low and dizziness).

Labetalol must be used exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. If you are unsure contact your GP.

Common dose for hypertension is:

100mg twice a day. Your GP may increase your dose if needed.

It should be taken at the same time each day, with a glass of water.

More common side effects:

• Nausea

Less common side effects:

• Acid or sour stomach
• belching
• change in taste or bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste
• decreased interest in sexual intercourse
• feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
• headache
• heartburn
• inability to have or keep an erection
• indigestion
• lack or loss of strength
• loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
• not able to ejaculate semen
• rash
• sensation of spinning
• stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
• stuffy nose

Rare side effects:

• Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles”, or tingling feelings
• diarrhea
• increased sweating
• vomiting

Any concerns or queries regarding any side effects this medicine has caused or could cause you can call your GP or our pharmacist.

If you have any severe side effects seek medical assitance as soon as possible.