Labetalol
Brand: Trandate (US/EU) / Labeta (IN) / Labocard (BD)
Antihypertensive
Combined α₁ + β blocker
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | 6 hours |
| Tmax | 1.5 h |
| Bioavailability | 25 % (approx) |
| Protein Binding | 50 % |
| Volume of Distribution | 1.3 L/kg (approx) |
| Clearance Route | hepatic |
| Active Metabolites | no |
| Notes | Extensive first-pass metabolism; both oral and IV forms; preferred β-blocker in pregnancy and hypertensive crisis; metabolized mainly by liver glucuronidation. |
⚠️ Safety & Warnings
Severity: Moderate
Adverse Effects:
Postural hypotension (esp. after IV), fatigue, bradycardia, nasal congestion, scalp tingling
Contraindications:
Asthma, severe bradycardia, cardiogenic shock
Precautions:
Monitor blood pressure closely after IV administration; avoid abrupt withdrawal; use caution in hepatic impairment and during breastfeeding