Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Acebutolol is employed either on its own or in conjunction with other medications for the management of high blood pressure. It is also utilized to address specific irregular heart rhythms. Classified as a beta-blocker, acebutolol operates by inducing relaxation in blood vessels, thereby slowing the heart rate. This dual action aims to enhance blood flow, reduce blood pressure, and contribute to the normalization of irregular heart rhythms.
Uses and Dosage
Acebutolol is available in capsule form for oral administration. Typically, it is taken once or twice a day. To facilitate consistent use, aim to take acebutolol at the same time(s) every day.
Take acebutolol precisely as directed, avoiding deviations in dosage or frequency without consulting your doctor.
Initiation of acebutolol treatment may involve starting with a low dose, which your doctor may gradually increase. This allows your body to acclimate to the medication. Communicate with your doctor about your experience and any symptoms you may encounter during this adjustment period.
While acebutolol helps manage your condition, it does not offer a cure. Even if you feel well, continue taking acebutolol as prescribed. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor. Abruptly stopping acebutolol could lead to serious heart problems, such as angina (chest pain), a heart attack, or irregular heartbeats. If your doctor decides to reduce your dose, this will likely be done gradually over a period of 2 weeks. During this time, your doctor will closely monitor you and may advise against engaging in strenuous physical activities.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- excessive tiredness
- headache
- constipation
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- nausea
- muscle or joint pain
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- shortness of breath or wheezing
- slow heart rate
- muscle or joint pain
- unusual weight gain
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- chest pain
Caution
- Before initiating acebutolol, it’s important to disclose to your doctor or pharmacist any allergies you may have, including allergies to acebutolol or other substances in the medication. Inactive ingredients in the product could potentially cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, particularly if you have conditions such as blood circulation problems, respiratory issues, heart problems, kidney problems, liver problems, mental/mood disorders, a specific muscle disease (myasthenia gravis), overactive thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism), or a history of serious allergic reactions requiring treatment with epinephrine.
- This medication may induce dizziness, and the combination of acebutolol with alcohol or marijuana may intensify this effect. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Acebutolol may mask the usual fast or pounding heartbeat associated with low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This effect can be more pronounced in individuals with diabetes, particularly during vomiting, fasting, or irregular eating. Other symptoms of low blood sugar, like dizziness and sweating, are not affected by this drug.
- For individuals with diabetes, acebutolol may complicate blood sugar control. Monitor blood sugar levels regularly and inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination. Adjustments to your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet may be necessary.
- Children using this drug, especially those vomiting or not eating regularly, may be at an increased risk of low blood sugar. To prevent low blood sugar, ensure that children eat regularly. If your child experiences symptoms of low blood sugar, such as sweating and shaking, contact the doctor immediately.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers taking acebutolol during pregnancy may have a low birth weight and require monitoring for issues like low blood pressure and a slow heartbeat. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Acebutolol passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Sectral is available in the following forms and strengths:
- acebutolol tablet:
- 100 mg
- 200 mg
- 400 mg
FAQ
How long does it take Sectral to work?
Sectral starts to work after about 1.5 hours for heart rate and blood pressure, but can take up to 24 to 30 hours for fast heart rate caused by exercise (exercise-induced tachycardia).
Can I drink alcohol while taking Sectral?
Drinking alcohol is not recommended while taking Sectral because alcohol can raise your blood pressure and cause changes to your heartbeat, which can make Sectral not work as well.
