What is penbutolol?
Penbutolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).
Penbutolol is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).
Penbutolol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about penbutolol?
Do not stop taking penbutolol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using penbutolol. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.
This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of penbutolol.
Penbutolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.
Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking penbutolol?
You should not take penbutolol if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
To make sure you can safely take penbutolol, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
kidney disease;
liver disease;
bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;
congestive heart failure;
diabetes; or
a thyroid disorder.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether penbutolol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether penbutolol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.