What is Sectral (Acebutolol) prescribed for?

Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood that pushes against the blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into blood vessels which carry the blood throughout the body. High blood pressure can be dangerous because it makes the heart work harder to pump blood out to the body and contributes to the hardening of arteries, stroke, kidney disease and heart failure.

This medication is used to treat High Blood Pressure and irregular heartbeat, which is called arrhythmia. Lowering one's blood pressure helps to prevent stroke, heart attacks and kidney problems. Treating irregular heartbeat assists the heart in functioning better and with less strain. This is a positive outcome since irregular heartbeats can be quite serious and may even lead to a heart attack.

This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as beta blockers. And it functions by blocking the action of a natural substance in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect, in turn, lowers heart rate, blood pressure and strain on the heart.

Read up on any information your doctor may have given you regarding this medication. And if you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist when possible. And to be sure Sectral is helping your condition, Visit your doctor regularly.

This medication is taken by mouth, with or without food or as directed by your doctor. Usually taken once or twice a day. Remember the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic Levonorgestrel or Ethinyl Estradiol; or to any other medications or allergies in general. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.

It is best to inform your doctor of your medical history. Therefore, it is best to speak with your doctor if you have ever suffered from any of the following;  blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's disease, peripheral vascular disease), breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema), heart problems (such as heart failure, previous heart attack, heart rhythm problems), kidney problems, liver problems, mental/mood disorders (such as depression), a certain muscle disease (myasthenia gravis), overactive thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism), serious allergic reactions, including those needing treatment with epinephrine.

If you have diabetes, this product may mask the fast/pounding heartbeat you would usually feel when your blood sugar falls too low (hypoglycemia). Other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness and sweating, are unaffected by this drug. This product may also make it harder to control your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.

While minor, some of these side effects may occur. They are as follows; Tiredness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, upset stomach, slow heartbeat, or trouble sleeping may occur. However if any of these persist or worsen, it’s best to speak with your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: symptoms of asthma (for example, feelings of tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, cough, wheezing), blue fingers/toes, fainting, very slow heartbeat, new or worsening symptoms of heart failure (such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain), mental/mood changes (such as confusion, depression, memory problems), vision changes, symptoms of liver disease (such as dark urine, persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak to your doctor before stopping taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon as you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next scheduled dose to avoid overlapping in the dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication, speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.