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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking penbutolol (Levatol)?

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

• asthma; or
• certain serious heart conditions such as"AV block" or slow heart rhythm.

To make sure you can safely take penbutolol, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;
• congestive heart failure;
• diabetes; or
• a thyroid disorder.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether penbutolol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether penbutolol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take penbutolol (Levatol)?

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.

Take penbutolol at the same time every day.

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 stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Stopping a beta-blocker too quickly can cause serious heart problems.

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

Penbutolol 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.

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.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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