Chapter L - Chapter
from Drugs: An A–Z Guide
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 July 2019
Summary
Labetalol is a combined α- and β-adrenoceptor antagonist. The proportion of β-blockade to α-blockade when given orally is 3:1, and 7:1 when given IV. It lowers the blood pressure by blocking α-adrenoceptors in arterioles and thereby reduces the peripheral resistance. Concurrent β-blockade protects the heart from reflex sympathetic drive, normally induced by peripheral vasodilatation.
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- Information
- Handbook of Drugs in Intensive CareAn A-Z Guide, pp. 162 - 178Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2019