(a-se-BYOO-toe-lole)

NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Myocardial infarction post-incident, stable angina

ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Abnormal heart rhythm (ventricular arrhythmias), angina, high blood pressure

BRAND NAME
Sectral

DRUG CLASS
Antiarrhythmic, antihypertensive (beta-blocker)

DESCRIPTION
This drug blocks a type of cell membrane, called beta-adrenergic receptors, in the heart to stabilize heart rate and reduce blood pressure.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Fatigue, headache, dizziness, insomnia, depression, chest pain, edema (swelling related to fluid retention), abnormal dreams, rash, constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, muscle aches, impotence, abnormal vision, shortness of breath.

CAUTIONS
  • Do not use if you have a certain type of heart condition, such as congestive heart failure, cardiogenic shock, too low heart rate, or second- and third-degree heart block, sinus node dysfunction. Also, do not use during pregnancy.
  • Do not stop this medication suddenly; instead, taper over a gradual period.
  • May result in an exaggerated response such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, or chest pain. Consult with your doctor about possible effects on the heart.
  • May cause or mask the symptoms of low blood glucose levels in diabetics.
  • Notify your doctor if you have lung disease or problems with kidney function.
  • Avoid this type of drug if you have congestive heart failure.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Clonidine, reserpine, disopyramide, theophylline, aluminum salts, barbiturates, calcium salts, cholestyramine, colestipol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., indomethacin, etc.), penicillins, rifampin, haloperidol, ergot alkaloids, prazosin, salicylates, some sulfonylureas

FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown

HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Dong quai, yohimbe, ginseng

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category B (manufacturer), Category D (2nd and 3rd trimesters). Excreted in breast milk, consult your doctor prior to use.

SPECIAL INFORMATION
Notify your doctor of any chest pain, sensations of unusual heart rate, unresolved swelling of extremities, unusual weight gain, breathing difficulty, new cough, skin rash, unresolved fatigue, unresolved constipation or diarrhea, unusual muscle weakness.

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