What is Trandate?

Trandate is an oral tablet made up of a non-cardioselective beta blocker called labetalol. We carry the brand choice Trandate, as well as its generic alternative. You can purchase either the brand or generic in 100mg or 200mg.

Trandate, or labetalol, is used for the treatment of hypertension. Hypertension is a condition that is very straining on the heart and can cause complications such as strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. When blood vessels are narrow, it causes the blood to apply excessive pressure against the walls of the vessels, which is what causes high blood pressure (hypertension). Having excess fluid in the body can also cause high blood pressure, which can be a result of sodium. In some cases, due to tumors or other abnormalities, the adrenal glands may produce excess amounts of a hormone (aldosterone) which raises sodium levels in the blood, increasing fluid in the body, and increasing blood pressure levels. Sometimes, this medication is used with other medications that control blood pressure.

Trandate (labetalol) is effective at treating high blood pressure (hypertension) by improving blood flow because of its power to block the actions of the chemicals in the body that cause the increase in blood pressure.

Ensure you follow all directions found on your prescription label. Do not take more or less of a dose than your doctor has prescribed to you; only use this product for the duration your doctor has directed. Your blood pressure will need to be check throughout treatment. If you have diabetes, you should also have your blood sugar levels checked often. Certain urine tests may present false results if taken during the time of treatment with Trandate; tell laboratory staff that you use Trandate.

Take Trandate by mouth, with a full glass of water, twice a day; or as directed by your doctor. You may take the tablet with food, but ensure you take it the same way each time.

Do not use Trandate if you have asthma, very low blood pressure, a serious heart condition (such as AV block – 2nd or 3rd degree, or uncontrolled heart failure), or an allergy to labetalol.

Trandate is not approved for use in those under the age of 18.

Dose adjustment or special precautions

To determine your dose, it is important to tell your doctor if you have ever had congestive heart failure, angina, liver disease, emphysema, chronic bronchitis (or other breathing problems), pheochromocytoma, diabetes, coronary artery bypass surgery, kidney disease, or allergies.

Risks

This medication can affect your pupils; this is important to know if you are having cataract surgery; tell your surgeon that you are taking Trandate.

It is not known if this medication will cause harm to an unborn baby. However, this medication can cause low blood pressure, low blood sugar, slow heartbeats, and/or breathing problems in a newborn if used during pregnancy. Those who are pregnant should tell your doctor before starting treatment.

Breast milk may not be safe for infants if the mother is using Trandate. Ask your doctor about the risks.  

Common side effects of Trandate (labetalol) may include:

dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness; nausea, vomiting; sudden warmth, skin redness, sweating; numbness; or tingly feeling in your scalp.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Trandate (labetalol) may include:

a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop); shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain; severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears; or

liver problems: loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), flu-like symptoms, itching, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

If you have any of the above side effects or signs of complications, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

What is Labetalol?

Trandate can be used with or without other medications as a treatment for high blood pressure. By actively taking this medication, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risks of strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. Labetalol is considered to be both an alpha-blocker and a beta blocker.  When taken, it generally works by blocking the action of a natural chemical called an epinephrine and stops it from working on the heart and blood vessels. This in turn lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and overall strain on your heart. This medication comes in two different strengths which are 100mg and 200mg. If you have any questions regarding this medication or any inquiries in general, feel free to give us a call at our toll-free number 1-877-385-8998.     

How long does Labetalol stay in your system?

Usually, Labetalol stays in your system for up to two days before most of it has been eliminated from your system. Although do keep in mind that this medication breaks down differently for each person, therefore, each outcome is a bit different.

How quickly does Labetalol work?

With a singular dose, peak effects are known to occur within 2 to 4 hours. However, it does depend on the strength of the medication. The larger the strength, the longer you may have to wait for it to begin to work, which could be 8 to 12 hours.