Labetalol Is a Combined Alpha-Beta Blocker Used to Treat High Blood Pressure

Labetalol (Labetalol Hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that lowers blood pressure by blocking both alpha-1 and beta adrenergic receptors in the body. It has been used safely for decades and is one of the most commonly prescribed blood pressure medications during pregnancy.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Labetalol in 2026 — what it's used for, how to take it, who should avoid it, and how much it costs.

What Is Labetalol?

Labetalol belongs to a drug class called combined alpha-beta adrenergic blockers. It works by blocking alpha-1 receptors (which relaxes blood vessels) and beta-1/beta-2 receptors (which slows the heart rate). This dual action lowers blood pressure effectively without causing a significant increase in heart rate.

Key facts about Labetalol:

• Generic name: Labetalol Hydrochloride
• Brand names: Trandate (current), Normodyne (discontinued)
• Drug class: Alpha-beta adrenergic blocker
• Original manufacturer: GlaxoSmithKline (Trandate); now available from multiple generic manufacturers
• Controlled substance: No — Labetalol is not a controlled substance
• Available forms: 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg oral tablets; 5 mg/mL IV injection

For a plain-English explanation of how Labetalol works in your body, read our mechanism of action guide.

What Is Labetalol Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

• Essential hypertension (high blood pressure) — Labetalol is approved for the treatment of high blood pressure, either alone or in combination with other medications.
• Hypertensive emergencies — The IV form is used in hospitals when blood pressure needs to be lowered urgently.

Common Off-Label Uses

Doctors also prescribe Labetalol for several conditions where it has shown benefit, even though these uses aren't part of the official FDA labeling:

• Pregnancy-induced hypertension and pre-eclampsia — Labetalol is one of the first-choice medications for managing high blood pressure during pregnancy.
• Postoperative hypertension — Used after surgery to control blood pressure spikes.
• Pheochromocytoma — A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that causes dangerously high blood pressure.
• Cocaine or amphetamine-related hypertensive crisis — Labetalol's combined alpha-beta blocking action makes it useful in these emergencies.

How Is Labetalol Taken?

Labetalol tablets are taken by mouth, typically twice daily (morning and evening). Here's what to know about dosing:

• Starting dose: 100 mg twice daily
• Maintenance dose: 200 to 400 mg twice daily
• Maximum dose: 2,400 mg per day (in divided doses)
• With food: Food increases absorption. Take it consistently — either always with food or always without.

Important: Never stop taking Labetalol abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure, chest pain, or even heart attack. Your doctor will taper the dose gradually if you need to stop.

Who Should Not Take Labetalol?

Labetalol is not safe for everyone. It is contraindicated (should not be used) in people with:

• Overt heart failure
• Heart block greater than first degree
• Severe bradycardia (very slow heart rate)
• Cardiogenic shock
• Severe low blood pressure
• Asthma or obstructive airway disease (the beta-blocking effect can trigger bronchospasm)
• Known hypersensitivity (allergy) to Labetalol

If any of these apply to you, your doctor will choose an alternative medication instead.

How Much Does Labetalol Cost?

Labetalol is available as an affordable generic medication:

• With insurance: Most plans cover Labetalol as a Tier 1 preferred generic. Typical copays are $0 to $15 per month.
• Without insurance (cash price): $15 to $90 for a 30-day supply, depending on the dose and pharmacy.
• With discount coupons: Sites like GoodRx, SingleCare, and RxSaver can bring the price down to $10 to $30 for 60 tablets.

For more ways to save, read our full guide on Labetalol coupons, discounts, and patient assistance programs.

If you're uninsured, patient assistance programs through NeedyMeds, RxAssist, and RxHope may help cover the cost.

Side Effects at a Glance

The most common side effects of Labetalol include dizziness (11%), nausea (6%), fatigue (5%), and nasal congestion (3%). Serious but rare side effects include liver damage, bronchospasm, and severe hypotension.

For a complete breakdown, see our Labetalol side effects guide.

Final Thoughts

Labetalol is a proven, affordable blood pressure medication with a long track record of safe use. Whether you're newly diagnosed with hypertension, managing blood pressure during pregnancy, or looking for information about a medication you've been prescribed, this guide should help you understand what Labetalol is and how it works.

If you're ready to fill your prescription, search Medfinder to find pharmacies near you that have Labetalol in stock.