beta-l tablet - Labetalol (100mg) medicine

Labetalol 100mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Wohltat Lifesciences 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category Labetalol is considered safe for use during pregnancy when prescribed by a doctor. It is commonly used to treat hypertension in pregnant women. The FDA has not assigned a pregnancy category, but it is generally preferred over other antihypertensives in pregnancy. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 23, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Very slow heart rate (below 50 beats per minute)
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine or severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
  • Sudden severe headache or vision changes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is beta-l tablet used for?

Labetalol is a combined alpha- and beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate. The usual adult dose is 100 mg twice daily, adjusted as needed. It is also safe in pregnancy under medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Labetalol (100mg)
  • Manufacturer: Wohltat Lifesciences
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 beta-l tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा लेबेटालोल नामक तत्व से बनी है, जो उच्च रक्तचाप (हाई ब्लड प्रेशर) को नियंत्रित करने में मदद करती है। यह अल्फा और बीटा दोनों रिसेप्टर्स को ब्लॉक करती है, जिससे रक्त वाहिकाएं फैलती हैं और हृदय की गति धीमी होती है। इसका उपयोग गर्भावस्था के दौरान भी किया जा सकता है, लेकिन डॉक्टर की सलाह से ही। यह दवा दिल के दौरे और स्ट्रोक के खतरे को कम करने में मदद करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में चक्कर आना, थकान, सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना और खोपड़ी में झुनझुनी शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी धड़कन धीमी हो सकती है, हाथ-पैर ठंडे लग सकते हैं, या नींद न आने की समस्या हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको सांस लेने में तकलीफ, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या पीलिया जैसे लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अचानक बंद न करें, क्योंकि इससे रक्तचाप खतरनाक रूप से बढ़ सकता है। दवा लेते समय चक्कर आ सकते हैं, इसलिए उठते समय धीरे-धीरे उठें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब न पिएं। अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं कि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भवती होने की योजना बना रही हैं, या स्तनपान करा रही हैं। नियमित रूप से रक्तचाप और हृदय गति की जांच कराएं।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 beta-l tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Hypertension","description":"Labetalol is used to lower high blood pressure by reducing peripheral vascular resistance and heart rate.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hypertensive emergencies","description":"Intravenous labetalol is used for rapid blood pressure control in hypertensive crises, but this oral tablet is for chronic management.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hypertension in pregnancy","description":"Labetalol is commonly used to manage chronic and gestational hypertension during pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Angina pectoris","description":"Labetalol may be used to reduce angina attacks by decreasing heart rate and blood pressure, but it is not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Migraine prophylaxis","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to prevent migraines, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Anxiety with autonomic symptoms","description":"Occasionally used off-label to manage physical symptoms of anxiety, but not a standard treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Hypertension

Also treats: Hypertensive emergencies, Angina pectoris, Hypertension in pregnancy

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Labetalol (100mg)
Brand Namebeta-l tablet
ManufacturerWohltat Lifesciences
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassCARDIAC
Action ClassAlpha & beta blocker
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization includes labetalol in its list of essential medicines for the treatment of hypertension, including in pregnancy.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research recommends labetalol as a safe and effective option for managing hypertension in pregnancy.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain steady blood levels.
2
Do not stop this medicine abruptly; your doctor will taper the dose gradually.
3
Monitor your blood pressure and heart rate regularly and keep a record.
4
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness.
5
Inform your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, or liver disease before starting this medicine.
6
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase dizziness.
7
If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor about the safest options.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
High blood pressure
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Angina (chest pain)
May be used to reduce angina attacks.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionLabetalol is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. However, it undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, which reduces its systemic bioavailability. Food may increase the bioavailability of labetalol, so it is recommended to take it consistently with or without food.
DistributionLabetalol is widely distributed throughout the body. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. It is also excreted in breast milk in small amounts. The volume of distribution is approximately 9.4 L/kg.
Protein BindingApproximately 50% of labetalol is bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismLabetalol is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by glucuronidation. It does not undergo significant oxidative metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes, which reduces the risk of interactions with drugs that affect these enzymes. The main metabolite is an inactive glucuronide conjugate.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of labetalol is approximately 5.5 to 8 hours. In patients with liver disease, the half-life may be prolonged.
ExcretionLabetalol and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine (about 55-60%) and in the feces (about 30-35%). Only a small amount is excreted unchanged in the urine.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of labetalol is approximately 25% due to first-pass metabolism. It may be increased when taken with food.
Onset of ActionAfter oral administration, the onset of action is within 20 minutes to 2 hours. For intravenous administration, the onset is within 2 to 5 minutes, but this medicine is an oral tablet.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is dose-dependent and typically ranges from 8 to 12 hours after oral administration.

How It Works

Labetalol is a unique antihypertensive agent that competitively blocks both alpha-1 adrenergic receptors and beta-adrenergic receptors. Its beta-blocking effect is non-selective, affecting both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors, while its alpha-blocking effect is selective for alpha-1 receptors. By blocking beta-1 receptors in the heart, it reduces heart rate and contractility, thereby decreasing cardiac output. Blocking alpha-1 receptors in blood vessels causes vasodilation, reducing peripheral vascular resistance. The combined effect leads to a reduction in blood pressure without a significant reflex tachycardia. Additionally, labetalol has some intrinsic sympathomimetic activity and membrane-stabilizing effects, but these are not clinically significant at usual doses.

Mechanism Steps

1
Alpha-1 receptor blockade: Labetalol binds to alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on vascular smooth muscle, preventing norepinephrine from activating them, which leads to vasodilation and reduced peripheral resistance.
2
Beta-1 receptor blockade: Labetalol blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate and contractility, which decreases cardiac output and lowers blood pressure.
3
Beta-2 receptor blockade: Labetalol also blocks beta-2 receptors in the lungs and blood vessels, which can cause bronchoconstriction and may worsen asthma.
4
Combined effect: The simultaneous alpha and beta blockade results in a balanced reduction in blood pressure without excessive reflex tachycardia, making labetalol useful in various hypertensive conditions.

💡 How to Take beta-l tablet

Strength: Labetalol 100 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You can take it with or without food, but be consistent.
4Take it at the same times each day to maintain steady blood levels.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless your doctor advises.
6If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.
7Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual starting dose of this medicine for adults is 100 mg taken twice daily (morning and evening), with or without food. Your doctor may increase the dose gradually based on your blood pressure response, typically at intervals of 2 to 3 days. The usual maintenance dose ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg twice daily. For severe hypertension, doses up to 2400 mg per day may be used in divided doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of labetalol, especially dizziness and low blood pressure. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. Monitor kidney and liver function regularly.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is required for mild to moderate renal impairment. In severe renal impairment, use with caution and monitor closely.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with liver disease, the half-life of labetalol is prolonged. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. Monitor liver function tests.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 2400 mg, divided into two or three doses.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take consistently with or without food
Food increases absorption; consistency helps maintain stable blood levels.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
May increase drug levels and risk of side effects.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 6 hours since missed dose
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than 6 hours since missed dose
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of beta-l tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid driving if dizzy. Consult doctor if persistent.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest. If fatigue interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it continues, talk to your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Tingling sensation in scalp (Common (5-10%))
This is usually temporary. If bothersome, discuss with your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
Liver toxicity (Rare (<0.1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain immediately.
Severe bradycardia (slow heart rate) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical help if you feel faint, very dizzy, or have a very slow pulse.
Bronchospasm (Rare (<0.1%))
If you have asthma or COPD, report increased wheezing or difficulty breathing immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Heart block
Seek emergency care if you experience fainting, severe dizziness, or irregular heartbeat.
Hallucinations
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience hallucinations or confusion.
Psoriasis-like rash
Consult a dermatologist or your doctor if you develop a persistent rash.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Verapamil Major
Clonidine Major
MAOIs Major
NSAIDs Moderate
Albuterol Moderate
Insulin Moderate
Antacids Minor
Cimetidine Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem)
  • Clonidine
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Beta-2 agonists (e.g., albuterol)
  • Insulin and oral hypoglycemics

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of labetalol, leading to dizziness, fainting, and orthostatic hypotension. It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Asthma or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)","Severe bradycardia","Second- or third-degree heart block","Cardiogenic shock","Severe liver disease","Hypersensitivity to labetalol"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not stop this medicine abruptly; taper gradually to avoid rebound hypertension.","Use with caution in patients with diabetes, as it may mask hypoglycemia symptoms.","May worsen symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon or peripheral vascular disease.","Use with caution in patients with a history of severe allergic reactions.","May cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease.","Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Labetalol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of labetalol can cause severe low blood pressure, slow heart rate, heart failure, and bronchospasm. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include intravenous fluids, atropine for bradycardia, and vasopressors for hypotension. Hemodialysis is not effective for removing labetalol.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Safety is paramount when taking this medicine. Always take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure or heart problems. This medicine can cause dizziness, especially when you stand up quickly, so rise slowly from a sitting or lying position. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This medicine may pass into breast milk, so discuss with your doctor if you are nursing. Keep all your doctor appointments and get your blood pressure, heart rate, and liver function checked regularly. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase dizziness and low blood pressure. Tell your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as many can interact with this medicine. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering and heart rate-slowing effects of labetalol. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. Monitor for dizziness, falls, and orthostatic hypotension. Regular kidney and liver function tests are recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor. Labetalol is considered safe during pregnancy, but your dose may need adjustment. Do not stop or change the medicine without medical advice.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking labetalol before any surgery. It may interact with anesthetic agents and affect heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor may adjust the dose or temporarily switch to another medicine.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Tell your dentist that you are taking labetalol before any dental procedure. It may interact with local anesthetics containing epinephrine, potentially causing blood pressure changes. Your dentist may take precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to help control blood pressure.
🥗
Engage in regular physical activity like walking, swimming, or cycling.
😴
Reduce salt intake to less than 5 grams per day.
💧
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
🧘
Limit alcohol and avoid smoking.
🌞
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
🚭
Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours per night).

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe and beneficial while taking labetalol. However, because labetalol can cause dizziness and slow heart rate, avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting until you know how the medicine affects you. Stay hydrated and rise slowly after exercise to prevent dizziness.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Follow a low-sodium diet (DASH diet).
Include potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and spinach.
Limit processed and fried foods.
Avoid excessive caffeine.
Stay well hydrated with water.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

Labetalol may cause dizziness or fatigue, especially when you first start taking it. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal work and daily activities with dose adjustment. Inform your employer if your job involves operating machinery or driving.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking labetalol without consulting your doctor. Abrupt discontinuation can cause rebound hypertension, chest pain, or heart attack. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose if needed. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of labetalol is generally safe when monitored by a doctor. Regular check-ups should include blood pressure, heart rate, liver function, and kidney function tests. Prolonged use may lead to tolerance, requiring dose adjustments. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice. Long-term benefits include reduced risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage from uncontrolled hypertension.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Lifestyle modifications

Diet, exercise, and stress reduction can help lower blood pressure and may reduce the need for medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Other antihypertensive classes

ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics may be alternatives if labetalol is not suitable.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between labetalol and vaccines. However, always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate or freeze

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry your labetalol tablets in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep them in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually in consultation with your doctor. Carry enough supply for the entire trip plus extra in case of delays. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 32-year-old pregnant woman with chronic hypertension
She was prescribed labetalol 100 mg twice daily to control her blood pressure during pregnancy. Her blood pressure stabilized within a week, and she delivered a healthy baby. She emphasized taking the medicine regularly and attending all prenatal check-ups.
💡 Lesson: Labetalol is safe and effective for managing hypertension in pregnancy when taken as prescribed and monitored by a doctor.
👤 A 55-year-old man with newly diagnosed hypertension
He started labetalol 100 mg twice daily and experienced mild dizziness in the first week. His doctor advised him to rise slowly and avoid driving until the dizziness subsided. After two weeks, his blood pressure was well controlled, and the dizziness had resolved.
💡 Lesson: Common side effects like dizziness often improve with time. Adhering to safety advice helps manage them effectively.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Labetalol starts lowering blood pressure within 20 minutes to 2 hours after oral intake, but full effect may take a few days to weeks.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, do not stop suddenly. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping abruptly can cause dangerous rebound hypertension. Consult your doctor first.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Labetalol is considered safe during pregnancy when prescribed and monitored by a doctor. It is commonly used to treat hypertension in pregnant women.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • Does it cause weight gain?

🔄 Substitutes for beta-l tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Labetalol is only for pregnant women.
    Fact: Labetalol is used for hypertension in both men and women, though it is commonly prescribed in pregnancy.
  • Myth: You can stop labetalol once your blood pressure is normal.
    Fact: High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping suddenly can cause dangerous rebound hypertension. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
  • Myth: Labetalol causes weight gain.
    Fact: Labetalol is not typically associated with weight gain; some beta-blockers may cause weight gain, but labetalol is less likely to do so.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Labetalol hydrochloride 100 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Beta-L 100 mg tablet
  • Labetalol 100 mg tablet (various manufacturers)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Labetalol","class":"Alpha-beta blocker","main_use":"Hypertension, pregnancy hypertension","key_difference":"Dual action, safe in pregnancy"},{"medicine":"Metoprolol","class":"Beta-1 selective blocker","main_use":"Hypertension, angina, heart failure","key_difference":"Cardioselective, not first choice in pregnancy"},{"medicine":"Carvedilol","class":"Alpha-beta blocker","main_use":"Heart failure, hypertension","key_difference":"Also used in heart failure, not typically in pregnancy"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory