Acebutolol

Acebutolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Introduction

Generic name: Acebutolol

Brand name: Sectral

Dosage form: oral capsule (200 mg; 400 mg)

Drug classes: Cardioselective beta blockers, Group II antiarrhythmics

Use

Acebutolol is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart rhythm disorders.

Directions for use

  • Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

  • If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using acebutolol. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

  • Your blood pressure will need to be checked often.

  • You should not stop using acebutolol suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

  • If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medicine even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.

  • Acebutolol is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your doctor’s instructions very closely.

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include very slow heartbeats, trouble breathing, severe dizziness, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).

Side effects

Acebutolol may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • Shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain

  • New or worsening chest pain

  • Slow heartbeats

  • A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out

  • Dangerously high blood pressure–severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, nosebleed, anxiety, confusion, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats.

Common side effects of acebutolol may include:

  • Headache, dizziness

  • Feeling tired

  • Nausea, upset stomach

  • Diarrhea, constipation

  • Sleep problems (insomnia).

Warnings

You should not use acebutolol if you have a serious heart condition such as AV block (2nd or 3rd degree), severe heart failure, or slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint.

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