Drug interactions
Labetalol + Propranolol
Severity: Major
Labetalol and Propranolol: 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
Combining a nonselective beta blocker with labetalol, which itself has beta- and alpha-blocking activity, duplicates beta blockade. The result can be excessive bradycardia, hypotension and AV conduction delay without added benefit.
What this interaction means in plain words
Labetalol and Propranolol 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 belongs to Cardiovascular; Propranolol belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic beta-adrenergic blockade, with added alpha-1 blockade from labetalol.
What to do
Avoid using two beta blockers together and choose a single agent. If briefly overlapping during a switch, monitor heart rate and blood pressure.
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?
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Other interactions of Propranolol
- Propranolol + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Propranolol Major
- Adrenaline-articaine + Propranolol Major
- Albuterol + Propranolol Major
- Amifostine + Propranolol Major
- Amiodarone + Propranolol Major
Other interactions of Labetalol
- Amifostine + Labetalol Major
- Amiodarone + Labetalol Major
- Atenolol-chlorthalidone + Labetalol Major
- Atenolol + Labetalol Major
- Betaxolol + Labetalol Major
- Bisoprolol + Labetalol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Labetalol with Propranolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Labetalol and Propranolol 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. Combining a nonselective beta blocker with labetalol, which itself has beta- and alpha-blocking activity, duplicates beta blockade. The result can be excessive bradycardia, hypotension and AV conduction delay without added benefit.
How serious is the interaction between Labetalol and Propranolol?
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 using two beta blockers together and choose a single agent. If briefly overlapping during a switch, monitor heart rate and blood pressure.
What other medicines interact with Propranolol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Propranolol with, for example, Thioridazine, Acebutolol, Adrenaline-articaine. The full list is on the Propranolol page.
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