Acebutolol (a se byoo` toe lole)

Brand name: Sectral (also available generically)

Important WarningNever stop taking Acebutolol before talking to a physician first, if Acebutolol is stopped suddenly, it can cause chest pain or heart attacks in some individuals. 

Why do doctors prescribe Acebutolol?

Acebutolol is prescribed to help high blood pressure; it will relax your blood vessels so the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard.  Acebutolol is also used to treat an irregular heart beat and occasionally for additional afflictions, ask your physician or pharmacist for additional information on this.

How should this medication be taken?

Acebutolol comes in capsule form and is consumed through the mouth, usually once or twice daily.  Read the prescription label carefully and follow the directions to the letter, and any part you don’t understand ask a physician or pharmacist to explain to you.  Do not take more of less of the amount your physician has prescribed for you, and do not take it more often thinking more is better. 

Acebutolol is designed to control your ailment, but doesn’t cure it, so continue to take your Acebutolol even if you feel better.  Never stop taking Acebutolol unless first consulting with a physician.

What other uses are there for Acebutolol?

Acebutolol is used to treat chest pain (angina) in afflicted individuals, but talk to your doctor about the possible risks of taking Acebutolol for angina.

Are there any special precautions I should follow while on Acebutolol?

Before taking Acebutolol,

·         Tell the attending physician if you are allergic to Acebutolol or any other drugs.

·         Always tell the attending physician about any additional prescription or non-prescription drugs you are currently taking, especially medications for migraine headaches, diabetes, asthma, allergies, colds, or pain; other medications for high blood pressure or heart disease; reserpine; and vitamins.

·         If you have a history of kidney, heart, or liver disease; asthma or other lung diseases; diseases of the blood vessels; severe allergies; diabetes; or an overactive thyroid gland be sure to mention this to the physician.

·         Make sure to tell the physician if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or are currently breast feeding an infant.  If you should become pregnant while on Acebutolol immediately contact and notify your physician.

·         If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, tell the surgeon or dentist that you are currently taking Acebutolol.

·         This is a strong drug, and it may make individuals drowsy.  Don’t operate a vehicle or machinery until you gauge how your body reacts to Acebutolol.

·         Don’t drink while on Acebutolol as this can cause you to become even drowsier.

Are there any special dietary instructions to remember?

Contact a physician before ingesting salt substitutes with potassium.  If your physician suggests a low-salt or low-sodium diet, make sure to follow the directions explicitly.

What to do if you forget your scheduled dosage?

You can take the medication as soon as you notice you have missed the scheduled time, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dosage.  If this is the case skip the missed dosage and continue your regular regiment.  Never take a double dosage of Acebutolol to make up for a missed one.

Are there any side effects with Acebutolol?

Like most medications today Acebutolol can have serious side effects for those taking the medication.  Make sure to immediately contact a physician if any of the following symptoms are severe or don’t go away with time:

·         Dizziness

·         Light-headedness

·         Excessive tiredness

·         Headache

·         Constipation

·         Diarrhea

·         Upset stomach

·         Muscle aches

If any of the following symptoms should appear, immediately contact a physician:

·         Shortness of breath or wheezing

·         Swelling of the feet and lower legs

·         Chest pain

Serious side effects should be reported by you or your physician to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm or by phone at 1-800-332-1088.

How should I store the Acebutolol?

Acebutolol should always be kept in the airtight container provided by the pharmacist, tightly closed, and out of the eyes and reach of children.  Store it at room temperature and away from any sources of excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).  If the medication is outdated or no longer needed, talk to your pharmacist about proper disposal methods for drugs.

What should I do if someone overdoses on Acebutolol?

Whenever someone overdoses on Acebutolol, immediately call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.  If the victim is unconscious, incapacitated, or unable to breathe, call local emergency services at 911 without hesitation.

What additional information about Acebutolol should I be aware of?

Make sure to keep all your appointments with your physician and the laboratory you will be visiting.  The physician should be checking your blood pressure regularly to see what your response to Acebutolol is going to be.  The physician may ask you to occasionally check your own pulse (heart rate), so you can learn to keep tabs on your condition.  If you do not know how to check your pulse ask the physician or pharmacist to show you how, and if you ever check it and find it to be faster or slower than it should be, immediately contact your physician.

Remember to never let another person take your Acebutolol and if you have any questions about recharging your prescription or any questions at all ask a physician before doing anything.

Well that’s it for his hub on the pharmaceutical drug Acebutolol (Sectral), we hope the information contained here will help you understand the drug your physician has you on.  We hope you feel better soon, happy hubbing!