Labegest 200

Indications

Labegest Injection is prescribed for the management of:

• Hypertension, including in pregnancy, post-stroke, and following acute myocardial infarction.
• Hypertensive crises.
• Situations where hypotensive anesthesia is necessary.

Always consult a registered healthcare professional before use.

Pharmacology

Labetalol is an adrenergic receptor blocker that effectively combines selective alpha-1 and non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor inhibition. This dual action helps lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients. After oral administration, Labetalol is fully absorbed, reaching peak plasma levels within 1 to 2 hours, with a half-life of about 6 to 8 hours. The drug is primarily eliminated through urine without affecting renal function.

Dosage & Administration

Oral:

• Adults: Start with 100 mg twice daily, potentially increasing to 200-400 mg twice daily based on response.
• Severe Hypertension: May require 1,200 to 2,400 mg per day, with increments of no more than 200 mg twice daily.
• Elderly Patients: Generally, 100 to 200 mg twice daily is sufficient.

Injection/Infusion:

• IV Injection: Administer 50 mg over at least one minute, repeat as necessary up to a total of 200 mg.
• IV Infusion: Dilute to a concentration of 1 mg/mL. Initial rates vary based on condition, ranging from 20 mg/hour in pregnancy to 10-20 mg for hypertension after stroke.

Always consult a registered healthcare professional before use.

Interaction

Labegest may enhance the effects of halothane and should be used cautiously with Class I antiarrhythmics and calcium antagonists. Its hypotensive effect may be diminished with NSAIDs. Monitor for interactions with tricyclic antidepressants and cimetidine.

Contraindications

Labegest is not suitable for individuals with known hypersensitivity, second or third-degree heart block, uncontrolled heart failure, severe bradycardia, or bronchial asthma.

Side Effects

Common side effects include postural hypotension, fatigue, headache, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Pregnancy & Lactation

While no teratogenic effects have been established in animal studies, caution is advised when administering Labegest to pregnant or nursing women, as small amounts can be excreted in breast milk.

Precautions & Warnings

Monitor liver function closely during treatment, as rare cases of hepatocellular injury have been reported. Labegest should be used with caution in patients with peripheral vascular disease.

Overdose Effects

Overdose may lead to severe hypotension and bradycardia. Management includes gastric lavage and the use of atropine, digitalis glycosides, or vasopressors as needed.

Therapeutic Class

• Alpha and beta-adrenoceptor blockers.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and out of reach of children.