Labetalol
Labetalol is a combined alpha-1 and non-selective beta-blocker medication used primarily to treat hypertension. It works by blocking both alpha and beta adrenergic receptors, causing blood vessel relaxation and reduced heart rate. It is available in oral and intravenous formulations and is commonly used for routine blood pressure management as well as hypertensive emergencies.
Labetalol is a blood pressure medication that blocks both alpha and beta receptors to lower blood pressure and can be used both in routine management and emergency settings.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C07AG01
- RxNorm
- 6185
- Generic
- Labetalol
- Class
- atc-c07
- Brands
- Trandate
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, prefilled syringe, tablet, solution
- 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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 200-400mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 2-4 mg/kg/day divided in 2 doses
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 50-100mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
second and third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
commonly used for pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia when benefits outweigh risks
regular blood pressure monitoring and fetal growth assessment
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during first trimester unless essential for maternal health
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno specific adjustment
small amounts excreted in breast milk, monitor infant for hypotension and bradycardia
monitor infant for signs of beta-blockade
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose and titrate slowly
increased sensitivity to hypotensive effects, increased risk of orthostatic hypotension
regular blood pressure monitoring including standing BP
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children and adolescentsweight-based dosing required
limited safety and efficacy data in pediatric patients; use only when clearly needed
close monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose in severe impairment
primarily renally excreted; use with caution and monitor renal function
monitor renal function and adjust dose accordingly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose and monitor closely
extensively metabolized in liver; use with caution in hepatic impairment
monitor liver function tests and blood pressure response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
General prescribing information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological information
Labetalol is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). The IV formulation is specifically indicated for hypertensive emergencies, including severe hypertension in pregnancy. Oral labetalol may be used for routine management of hypertension and is sometimes preferred in pregnancy-related hypertension due to its safety profile.
Labetalol works by blocking both alpha-1 adrenergic receptors (causing vasodilation and reduced peripheral resistance) and beta-adrenergic receptors (reducing heart rate and cardiac output). This combined alpha and beta blockade provides effective blood pressure reduction through multiple mechanisms.
Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and orthostatic hypotension. Labetalol should not be discontinued abruptly as this may cause rebound hypertension. It may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia and is used cautiously in patients with asthma or severe bradycardia. IV administration requires close monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy