Bethanidine Sulfate
Bethanidine Sulfate is a guanidinium compound that acts as an antihypertensive agent by depleting norepinephrine from sympathetic nerve endings. It was historically used in the treatment of moderate to severe hypertension, though its use has been largely discontinued due to significant adverse effects.
An older antihypertensive medication that depletes catecholamines from nerve endings, primarily used for hypertension but largely withdrawn from clinical use.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 81966
- Generic
- Bethanidine Sulfate
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used for the management of moderate to severe hypertension. Due to its side effect profile and the availability of safer alternatives, clinical use has been largely discontinued.
Acts as a sympathetic nerve blocker that depletes norepinephrine from storage vesicles in adrenergic nerve terminals, reducing sympathetic tone and lowering blood pressure.
Common adverse effects include severe diarrhea, orthostatic hypotension, and nasal congestion. Contraindicated in patients with pheochromocytoma. Should not be used concurrently with MAO inhibitors. Has been withdrawn from most markets worldwide.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy