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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate)?

You should not take labetalol if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD;
• certain serious heart conditions such as"AV block" or slow heart rhythm; or
• conditions that cause very low blood pressure.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a labetalol dose adjustment or special tests:

• bronchitis, emphysema, sleep apnea, or other breathing problem;
• congestive heart failure;
• liver or kidney disease;
• diabetes; or
• pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland).

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether labetalol will harm an unborn baby. Labetalol may cause heart or lung problems in a newborn if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Labetalol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often, and you may need other blood tests at your doctor's office. Visit your doctor regularly.

Do not skip doses or stop taking labetalol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using labetalol. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Labetalol can affect your pupils during cataract surgery. Tell your eye surgeon ahead of time that you are using this medication. Do not stop using labetalol before surgery unless your surgeon tells you to.

Taking labetalol can make it harder for you to tell when your blood sugar is low. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly.

This medication can cause false results with certain lab tests of the urine. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using labetalol.

Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Labetalol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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