labetalol hydrochloride /ləbet″əlol/ , an antihypertensive drug with beta and alpha blocking properties. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe hypertension. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: The presence of asthma or emphysema prohibits its use. It should be used with caution in patients with diabetes because it may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia, particularly tachycardia. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse effects are orthostatic hypotension, fatigue, headache, skin rashes, scalp paresthesia, nausea, and vomiting.
