Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Pindolol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker (beta blocker) approved by the FDA to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It was originally marketed under the brand name Visken by Novartis (Sandoz), which has since been discontinued. Only generic versions are now available.
In addition to its approved use for high blood pressure, Pindolol is sometimes prescribed off-label for angina prophylaxis, SSRI augmentation in major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorders. Its unique partial agonist activity at serotonin 5-HT1A receptors makes it particularly useful as an antidepressant augmentation agent.
Pindolol works by blocking both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the body. By blocking these receptors, it slows the heart rate, reduces cardiac output, and lowers blood pressure.
What makes Pindolol unique among beta blockers is its intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) — it partially stimulates beta receptors even while blocking them. This means it tends to cause less resting bradycardia (slow heart rate) than other beta blockers. Pindolol also has partial agonist activity at serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, which is why psychiatrists sometimes use it to speed up the antidepressant response of SSRIs.
The typical dose ranges from 10 mg to 60 mg per day, taken in divided doses (usually twice daily). Your doctor will start you at a low dose (typically 5 mg twice daily) and gradually increase every 3–4 weeks as needed.
Pindolol has a findability score of 30 out of 100, meaning it is very difficult to find in stock at most pharmacies. As an older, less commonly prescribed beta blocker with limited generic manufacturers, many pharmacies do not routinely stock Pindolol. Periodic supply disruptions and the discontinuation of the brand-name Visken make finding this medication a significant challenge. Patients may need to call multiple pharmacies or use tools like Medfinder to locate Pindolol in stock near them.
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Pindolol can be prescribed by any licensed physician or qualified healthcare provider. The specialties that most commonly prescribe it include:
Pindolol is also available via telehealth consultations in many states.
No. Pindolol is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. It does not carry a risk of abuse or dependence. However, patients should never stop taking Pindolol suddenly — abrupt discontinuation can cause rebound angina, heart attack, or dangerous irregular heartbeat. Always taper under your doctor's supervision.
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include difficulty breathing, swelling of the hands or feet, unusual weight gain, chest pain, and fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat.
If you cannot find Pindolol in stock or your doctor recommends a switch, these beta blockers may be considered:
Important: None of these alternatives share Pindolol's unique intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) or 5-HT1A partial agonism. If you take Pindolol specifically for SSRI augmentation, discuss alternatives carefully with your psychiatrist.
Pindolol can interact with several medications. Tell your doctor about everything you take, including:
Pindolol is an effective beta blocker with unique pharmacological properties that set it apart from other medications in its class. However, with the brand-name Visken discontinued and limited generic manufacturers, finding Pindolol in stock can be a real challenge in 2026. Its findability score of 30 reflects these ongoing supply difficulties.
If you're having trouble locating Pindolol at your local pharmacy, Medfinder can help you search for pharmacies that currently have it in stock. You can also ask your pharmacist to order it directly from their wholesaler, or discuss alternative beta blockers with your doctor if the shortage persists.
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