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Drug interactions

Labetalol + Metaproterenol

Severity: Major

Labetalol and Metaproterenol: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Labetalol blocks beta receptors and can reduce the bronchodilator effect of metaproterenol. In patients with reactive airway disease this may lead to bronchospasm and poor response to the beta-agonist.

What this interaction means in plain words

Labetalol and Metaproterenol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Labetalol's beta-2 antagonism competes with metaproterenol's agonist action at bronchial receptors.

What to do

Avoid combining in patients with asthma or COPD where possible and choose a different antihypertensive. If unavoidable, monitor respiratory function and bronchodilator response.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Labetalol with Metaproterenol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Labetalol and Metaproterenol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Labetalol blocks beta receptors and can reduce the bronchodilator effect of metaproterenol. In patients with reactive airway disease this may lead to bronchospasm and poor response to the beta-agonist.

How serious is the interaction between Labetalol and Metaproterenol?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining in patients with asthma or COPD where possible and choose a different antihypertensive. If unavoidable, monitor respiratory function and bronchodilator response.

What other medicines interact with Labetalol?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Labetalol with, for example, Amifostine, Amiodarone, Atenolol-chlorthalidone. The full list is on the Labetalol page.

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