Acebutolol
Hypertension, Ventricular Tachycardia ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Beta-Adrenergic Blocker
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Acebutolol
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Click HereSummary
Acebutolol is used to treat high blood pressure and certain irregular heart rhythms. It can also manage ventricular arrhythmias and is sometimes prescribed for chest pain, known as angina.
Acebutolol works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure. This improves blood flow and reduces the workload on the heart, helping prevent damage to vital organs and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
For adults, the usual initial dose for hypertension is 400 mg daily, which can be given as a single dose or divided into two doses. For ventricular arrhythmias, the initial dose is 400 mg daily divided into two doses. The dosage can be increased if needed.
Common side effects include dizziness, tiredness, headache, constipation, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Serious side effects include shortness of breath, slow heart rate, unusual weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, and chest pain.
Acebutolol is not recommended for patients with severe bradycardia, heart block, overt cardiac failure, and cardiogenic shock. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of heart failure, renal or hepatic impairment, and bronchospastic diseases. Abrupt withdrawal can exacerbate angina or cause myocardial infarction, so dosage should be reduced gradually.
Indications and Purpose
What is Acebutolol used for?
Acebutolol is indicated for the management of hypertension and ventricular arrhythmias. It is also used to treat certain irregular heart rhythms and sometimes prescribed for chest pain (angina). It can be used alone or in combination with other medications to manage these conditions.
How does Acebutolol work?
Acebutolol is a cardioselective beta-blocker that works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart. This reduces heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure, improving blood flow and reducing the workload on the heart. It also has mild intrinsic sympathomimetic activity, which means it can slightly stimulate beta receptors while blocking them.
Is Acebutolol effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Acebutolol effectively reduces resting heart rate, exercise-induced tachycardia, and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. It has been demonstrated to be superior to placebo and similar in effectiveness to propranolol and hydrochlorothiazide in managing hypertension. It also significantly reduces ventricular ectopic beats and ventricular tachycardia.
How does one know if Acebutolol is working?
The benefit of Acebutolol is evaluated by regularly checking blood pressure and heart rate to determine the response to the medication. Your doctor may also ask you to monitor your pulse at home. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are important to assess the effectiveness and adjust the dosage if necessary.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Acebutolol?
For adults, the usual initial dose of Acebutolol for hypertension is 400 mg daily, which can be given as a single dose or divided into two doses. The dose may be increased to 400 mg twice daily if needed. For ventricular arrhythmias, the initial dose is 400 mg daily, divided into two doses, and can be increased to 600-1200 mg per day. There is no established dose for children, as safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
How do I take Acebutolol?
Acebutolol can be taken with or without food. It is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your bloodstream. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, you can continue your normal diet while taking Acebutolol.
For how long do I take Acebutolol?
Acebutolol is typically used as a long-term treatment for conditions like high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms. It is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, as it controls the condition but does not cure it. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How long does it take for Acebutolol to start working?
Significant reductions in resting and exercise heart rates and blood pressures have been observed 1.5 hours after Acebutolol administration, with maximal effects occurring between 3 and 8 hours post-dosing. The medication's effects on exercise-induced tachycardia can last 24 to 30 hours after administration.
How should I store Acebutolol?
Store Acebutolol in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. For disposal, use a medicine take-back program rather than flushing it down the toilet.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Acebutolol?
Acebutolol is contraindicated in patients with severe bradycardia, second- and third-degree heart block, overt cardiac failure, and cardiogenic shock. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of heart failure, renal or hepatic impairment, and bronchospastic diseases. Abrupt withdrawal can exacerbate angina or cause myocardial infarction, so dosage should be reduced gradually.
Can I take Acebutolol with other prescription drugs?
Acebutolol may interact with nasal decongestants, cough and cold products containing phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine, and other medications that affect heart rate or blood pressure. It can also interact with other beta-blockers, digoxin, and certain antiarrhythmic drugs. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Can I take Acebutolol with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Acebutolol be taken safely while pregnant?
Acebutolol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. It crosses the placenta and may cause reduced birth weight, decreased blood pressure, and decreased heart rate in the newborn. Adequate facilities for monitoring infants at birth should be available if the mother has taken Acebutolol during pregnancy.
Can Acebutolol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Acebutolol and its active metabolite are excreted in breast milk. Use in nursing mothers is not recommended due to potential effects on the breastfed infant. If you are breastfeeding, discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.
Is Acebutolol safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have increased bioavailability of Acebutolol, which means they might require lower maintenance doses. It is important to start at the low end of the dosing range and monitor for side effects. Elderly patients should be closely observed for any signs of adverse reactions, especially if they have renal impairment.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Acebutolol?
Acebutolol may limit the ability to exercise due to its effects on heart rate and blood pressure. It slows the heart rate and reduces blood pressure, which can affect exercise performance. If you notice significant limitations in your ability to exercise, discuss this with your doctor. They may adjust your treatment plan to better suit your lifestyle.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Acebutolol?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.