Indications
Sectral is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders such as arrhythmia. By lowering high blood pressure, it helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Treating irregular heartbeat helps the heart work better and with less strain.
Sectral is also known by its generic name, Acebutolol. It belongs to the class of drugs known as beta-blockers, specifically a selective, hydrophilic-beta-adrenoreceptor blocker with mild intrinsic sympathomimetic activity. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances in the body, such as adrenaline.
Use and Dosage
Acebutolol tablets are taken orally with or without food as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day. Your dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to the medication. Take Acebutolol tablets regularly to gain maximum benefit from it. You can take the tablet at the same time each day to help remember when to take it.
The recommended dosage of Acebutolol varies based on the medical condition being treated and the response to the medication. The usual maintenance dose for hypertension is between 400-1200 mg per day divided into one or two doses, but not exceeding 1200 mg per day. However, the initial dose may start at 200 mg twice a day and can be increased if needed. Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and do not adjust the dosage without consulting with them first.
When taking Acebutolol tablets to treat high blood pressure, it may take a few weeks before you experience the full benefits of the medication. Even if you feel well, continue to take the medication as prescribed by the doctor. Inform your doctor if you do not notice an improvement in your symptoms or if they worsen, such as if your routine blood pressure readings remain high or increase.
If you miss a dose of Sectral, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Sectral (Acebutolol):
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Slow heartbeat
- Stomach upset/gas
- Tiredness
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Unusual dreams your body adjusts to the medication
Serious Side Effects of Sectral (Acebutolol):
- Arm or leg weakness
- Blue fingers or toes
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Dark urine
- Depression
- Eye pain or swelling
- Fainting
- Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats
- Feeling unsteady
- Fluttering in your chest
- High fever
- Loss of coordination
- Memory problems
- Persistent nausea
- Profuse sweating
- Seeing halos around lights
- Severe headache
- Severe tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Slurred speech
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Sudden dizziness
- Sudden vision loss
- Swelling ankles or feet
- Tremors
- Trouble walking
- Tunnel vision
- Unexplained/sudden weight gain
- Very slow heartbeat
- Very stiff muscles
- Vision changes
- Vomiting
- Yellowing eyes or skin
Forms and Strength
Sectral (Acebutolol) is available in the following forms and strength:
Acebutolol: Tablet
- 100 mg
- 200 mg
- 400 mg
Cautions
- Sectral should not be stopped suddenly without first consulting a healthcare provider, as this can lead to serious complications.
- Sectral should be used with caution in individuals with a history of heart failure, as the medication can worsen heart function in some cases.
- Sectral may interact with other medications, including certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications, so inform a healthcare provider of all current medications being taken.
- Sectral should not be taken by individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to beta-blockers.
- Sectral may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting and should be used with caution in individuals who perform activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
- Sectral may cause changes in blood sugar levels and should be used with caution in individuals with diabetes.
- Sectral should be used with caution in individuals with a history of asthma or other lung conditions, as the medication can cause breathing difficulties in some cases.
- Sectral may cause changes in heart rhythm and should be used with caution in individuals with certain heart conditions.
- Sectral may cause a decrease in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly.
- Sectral may mask symptoms of low blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for individuals with diabetes.
- Sectral may cause erectile dysfunction in some individuals.
- Sectral should not be taken by individuals with a slow heart rate or certain types of irregular heartbeat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Sectral cause weight gain?
While weight gain is not commonly associated with Sectral, it is a possible side effect. If you experience unexplained weight gain while taking Sectral, you should talk to your healthcare provider.
Can Sectral be taken long-term?
Sectral can be taken long-term to manage hypertension and other heart conditions. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for dosing and to regularly monitor your blood pressure while taking this medication.
How should Sectral be stored?
Sectral should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children.
Can Sectral be used by children?
Sectral is typically not recommended for use in children under the age of 18, as there is limited information available about its safety and effectiveness in this population.
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