Section 13 · Monograph
Labetalol IV
Reviewed Nov 2026FDA label
TrandateAlpha/beta blocker
- Forms
- IV: 5mg/mL
- Dose
- 10-20mg IV over 1-2 min, may repeat/double every 10 min (max 300mg), or infusion 0.5-2mg/min
- MOA
- Nonselective beta + alpha-1 blockade
Indications
- Control of blood pressure in severe hypertension, including hypertensive emergencies and acute BP control in stroke/ICHFDA-labeled
Mechanism of Action
- Combined alpha-1 and nonselective beta blockade (beta:alpha ratio about 7:1 IV)
Full Dosing
Adult / usual
- IV bolus: 10-20mg over 1-2 minutes; may repeat or double every 10 minutes to a maximum cumulative dose of 300mg
- Infusion: 0.5-2mg/min titrated to response
- Keep patient supine during IV use
Contraindications
- Bronchial asthma or reactive airway disease
- Overt cardiac failure, second- or third-degree heart block, severe bradycardia, cardiogenic shock
- Hypersensitivity
Drug Interactions
- Verapamil/diltiazem: bradycardia and AV block
- Other antihypertensives additive
- Cimetidine increases levels
Adverse Effects
- Hypotension and bradycardia
- Bronchospasm
- Dizziness, scalp tingling
- Hepatic injury (rare)
Monitoring Parameters
- Continuous BP, heart rate and ECG
- Respiratory status
- Liver tests with prolonged use
Pregnancy & Lactation
- Used for hypertension in pregnancy; neonatal bradycardia and hypoglycemia possible
- Present in milk in small amounts