Generic Labetalol

Is There a Generic Labetalol?

Labetalol hydrochloride (Trandate^®) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is part of a class of medicines called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, or beta blockers for short. As the name suggests, labetalol helps to block beta receptors, which are receptors in the body that bind stress hormones, such as adrenaline (epinephrine). These receptors are found in many places throughout the body, including the heart and blood vessels. By blocking beta receptors, labetalol causes the reverse effect of the stress hormones. It decreases heart rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as the workload of the heart, meaning that the heart requires less blood and oxygen to work properly.

 

Unlike a lot of other beta blockers, labetalol also blocks alpha receptors. The alpha blocker component of labetalol works more on the peripheral blood vessels (arteries and veins), or those blood vessels in the arms and legs. By blocking the alpha receptors, labetalol relaxes these blood vessels.

 

Trandate is currently manufactured by Prometheus Laboratories. It has come off patent, making it available as a generic.

 

Generic Labetalol -- Strengths

Generic labetalol is sold under the name Labetalol Hydrochloride tablets. It may also be referred to as Labetalol HCl or just Labetalol. It is available in several strengths, including: