Acebutolol capsules

What is this medicine?

ACEBUTOLOL (a se BYOO toe lole) is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart and help it to beat more regularly. This medicine is used to treat high blood pressure and to treat or prevent certain heart rhythm problems.

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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-diabetes
-heart or vessel disease like slow heartrate, worsening heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome or Raynaud's disease
-kidney disease
-liver disease
-lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
-pheochromocytoma
-thyroid disease
-an unusual or allergic reaction to acebutolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

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Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly. This could lead to serious heart-related effects.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

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Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
-sotalol

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
-antiinflammatory drugs, NSAIDs like ibuprofen
-medicines for high blood pressure

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

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Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your heart rate and blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-chest pain
-cold, tingling, or numb hands or feet
-confusion
-irregular heartbeat
-muscle aches and pains
-slow heart rate
-sweating
-swollen legs or ankles
-tremor, shakes
-vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-anxiety
-change in sex drive or performance
-depression
-diarrhea
-dry or burning eyes
-headache
-nausea

Where should I keep my medicine?

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Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.