Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Acebutololis a beta-adrenergic (sympathetic) blocking agent. By blockingthe action of the sympathetic nervous system on the heart, acebutololreduces the heart rate and the force of heart muscle contraction.It is useful in treating high blood pressure, and abnormal heartrhythms.

PRESCRIPTION: yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes

PREPARATIONS: Capsules: 200 mg, 400 mg.

STORAGE: Capsules shouldbe stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Acebutololis prescribed for patients with high blood pressure (hypertension).It is also used in treating certain abnormal heart rhythms, suchas ventricular premature beats.

DOSING: Should betaken before meals or at bedtime. The dosage of acebutolol shouldbe reduced in patients with kidney and liver dysfunction.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Acebutololcan aggravate breathing difficulties in patients with asthma,chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. In patients with existing slowheart rates (bradycardias) and heart blocks (defects in the electricalconduction of the heart), acebutolol can cause dangerously slowheart rates, and even shock. Acebutolol reduces the force of heartmuscle contraction and can aggravate symptoms of heart failure.In patients with coronary artery disease, abruptly stopping acebutololcan suddenly worsen angina, and occasionally precipitate heartattacks. If it is necessary to discontinue acebutolol, its dosagecan be reduced gradually over several weeks. Acebutolol can maskthe early warning symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia),and should be used with caution in patients receiving treatmentfor diabetes.

PREGNANCY: Safe use of acebutolol in pregnancy and childrenhas not been established.

NURSING MOTHERS: The drug is excreted in human milk,and use among nursing mothers is discouraged.

SIDE EFFECTS: Acebutololis generally well tolerated and side effects are mild and transient.Rare side effects include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation,fatigue, insomnia, nausea, depression, dreaming, memory loss,fever, impotence, lightheadedness, slow heart rate, low bloodpressure, numbness, tingling, cold extremities, sore throat, andshortness of breath or wheezing.