DRUG INDEX
GENERIC NAME: acebutolol BRAND NAME: Sectral
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Acebutolol is a beta-adrenergic (sympathetic) blocking agent. By blocking the action of the sympathetic nervous system on the heart, acebutolol reduces the heart rate and the force of heart muscle contraction. It is useful in treating high blood pressure , and abnormal heart rhythms.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Capsules: 200 mg, 400 mg.
STORAGE: Capsules should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Acebutolol is prescribed for patients with high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also used in treating certain abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular premature beats.
DOSING: Should be taken before meals or at bedtime. The dosage of acebutolol should be reduced in patients with kidney and liver dysfunction.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Acebutolol can aggravate breathing difficulties in patients with asthma , chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. In patients with existing slow heart rates (bradycardias) and heart blocks (defects in the electrical conduction of the heart), acebutolol can cause dangerously slow heart rates, and even shock. Acebutolol reduces the force of heart muscle contraction and can aggravate symptoms of heart failure. In patients with coronary artery disease, abruptly stopping acebutolol can suddenly worsen angina , and occasionally precipitate heart attacks. If it is necessary to discontinue acebutolol, its dosage can be reduced gradually over several weeks. Acebutolol can mask the early warning symptoms of low blood sugar ( hypoglycemia ), and should be used with caution in patients receiving treatment for diabetes.
PREGNANCY: Safe use of acebutolol in pregnancy and children has not been established.
NURSING MOTHERS: The drug is excreted in human milk, and use among nursing mothers is discouraged.
SIDE EFFECTS: Acebutolol is generally well tolerated and side effects are mild and transient. Rare side effects include abdominal cramps, diarrhea , constipation , fatigue, insomnia, nausea, depression , dreaming, memory loss, fever, impotence , lightheadedness, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, numbness, tingling, cold extremities, sore throat , and shortness of breath or wheezing.
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