Side effects of labetalol

Labetalol

Labetalol is a medication which is given to the patients who have high blood pressure. You will also have to follow a diet plan and do regular exercises in order to achieve the optimal results. High blood pressure requires life-long treatment. It is recommended to visit your doctor on regular bases and to take your medication regularly, even if you feel fine, because high blood pressure usually has no symptoms.

Side Effects

Most patients do not experience any side effects, but if you notice any unusual changes, call your doctor as soon as possible, so the dose could be adjusted. Some side effects of Labetalol are not considered to be serious and they might go away after your body adjusts to this medication. Such side effects include dizziness, vertigo, tiredness, tingling sensation on the head, nasal congestion, sickness, upset stomach and difficulties with achieving an orgasm. However, if these side effects turn out to be persistent and severe, you should seek medical help. Serious side effects of Labetalol include irregular pulse, shortness of breath, faintness, excessive perspiration, nausea, pain in the stomach, itchiness of the skin, changes in color of the stool and urine, and jaundice. You may also experience changes in appetite and weight. Labetalol can impair your thinking and cause mental and mood changes as well. Some patients may develop flu-like symptoms, such as, fever and chills, sore throat and weakness. Other side effects of Labetalol may include bruising of the skin, swelling of the feet and hands, and pain in the muscles.

Overdose and Allergic Reaction

If you overdose with Labetalol, you may feel extremely dizzy or you may even faint, and your pulse will become very slow. In case of allergic reactions to Labetalol, you will notice changes on your skin, such as rash, irritation or itchiness, and swelling of the face lips or tongue. You may also have breathing difficulties and pain in the chest.

Safety Measures

Labetalol is not recommended for patients who suffer from lung or heart disease and who have extremely low blood pressure. Your doctor may have to adjust the dose of Labetalol in case you have diabetes, asthma, kidney or liver disease and adrenal gland tumor. Women who are pregnant and mothers who are breastfeeding must inform their doctor about it because Labetalol may harm the baby. Since Labetalol can cause mental changes and dizziness, you should be careful when you perform anything which requires alertness. Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of side effects.