Labetalol, a nonselective beta-blocker and alpha blocker used for treating hypertension. Dizziness and fatigue are the most common side effects with 10-20% of patients suffering from this in clinical trials when taking labetalol. A lot of dizziness — likely on account of its impact on blood pressure, if nothing else whenever people stood up. Fatigue, reported by almost 15% of users is likely related to the beta-blocking effects on heart rate and energy expenditure.
As per a survey taken, 1 – 3% of labetalol users in the United States report symptoms associated with gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and indigestion. Most often, these symptoms will occur in the first few weeks following treatment initiation, while others can linger if a modification of dose is warranted. In addition, up to 5-7% of patients will report scalp paresthesias: a strange and one-of-a-kind side effect which can feel like your head is being crawled on or burnt.
Only about 5% of patients on labetalol will experience orthostatic hypotension, a sharp fall in blood pressure we stand up. This disease can be associated with a higher risk of falls (especially in elderly patients) but good clinical monitoring should prevent complications. One of the post-serious effects is erectile dysfunction, which was reported by 2% to 1% of male patients. Though this is a small percentage of people, for those affected it can be life-changing — in fact high use was associated with increased likelihood that patients would get off the medication altogether.
One such study is a 2018 article in The Journal of Clinical Hypertension, which showed that cold extremities were reported by 7-12% of patients taking labetalol. One of these symptoms, caused by the drug's vasoconstrictive effects may be especially uncomfortable in cold climates.
The severity and impact of labetalol side effects differ from person to person. Given the variation in these responses, it underscores a different perspective of personalized medicine—each person has unique benefits and risks on statin therapy.
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