Alphadopa L 100 Mg Tablet

What is Alphadopa L 100 Tablet

Alphadopa L 100 is an antihypertensive medication used to treat High Blood Pressure (Hypertension). Its active ingredient is Labetalol, which belongs to the class of alpha and beta-adrenergic blocking agents. 

This medication works by blocking both alpha and beta receptors in the body, preventing the binding of Norepinephrine and reducing the constriction of blood vessels, resulting in lower Blood Pressure.

Alphadopa is particularly valuable in managing Hypertension in specific populations, including pregnant women with gestational Hypertension, elderly patients, and those with renal impairment where other antihypertensives may be contraindicated. The medication has a well-established safety profile with decades of clinical use and experience.

Alphadopa is manufactured by Wockhardt Ltd, a leading pharmaceutical company specializing in cardiovascular medications. It is available as a 100 mg oral tablet for convenient daily dosing. 

Side effects of Labetalol may include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and headache, which typically diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. 

What are the benefits of Alphadopa L 100 Tablet

Alphadopa L 100 works through its active ingredient, Labetalol, which provides dual alpha and beta-adrenergic receptor blockade. The beta-blocking activity reduces heart rate and cardiac output, while the alpha-blocking activity produces vasodilation, decreasing peripheral vascular resistance. This results in lowered Blood Pressure with minimal reflex tachycardia.

Alphadopa offers several important therapeutic benefits:

• Effectively controls Hypertension in various patient populations. 
• Demonstrates a favorable safety profile during pregnancy, making it one of the few antihypertensives with established safety for gestational Hypertension. 
• Provides 24-hour blood pressure control with appropriate dosing. 
• It causes controlled cardiac output and heart rate reductions, which are beneficial for patients with certain cardiovascular conditions. 
• Produces less reflex tachycardia compared to pure alpha-blockers. 

It is crucial to note that Alphadopa 100 may take several days to show its full antihypertensive effect, and sudden discontinuation should be avoided as it may cause rebound Hypertension.

How to take Alphadopa L 100 Tablet

Alphadopa L 100 is a prescription medication that should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Here are the general guidelines:

• Take Alphadopa consistently at the same times each day. 
• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water without breaking or crushing. 
• The tablet can be taken with or without food.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose of Alphadopa.

Strength and substitutes

The strength and substitutes available for Alphadopa are:

View all substitutes

What are the side effects of Alphadopa L 100 Tablet

Alphadopa is generally well-tolerated when used as directed. However, it may cause side effects, including:

• Dizziness and fatigue, especially during initial therapy
• Scalp tingling (especially around the scalp)
• Headache and weakness
• Mild gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea
• Orthostatic Hypotension (dizziness upon standing)

These adverse effects are mild and transient, often resolving as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if symptoms persist, consult your doctor. Rare but serious side effects like bronchospasm in asthmatic patients require immediate medical attention.

Safety Advice

Liver disease

People with liver disease require careful monitoring when taking Alphadopa, as the medication is metabolized in the liver. For those with hepatic impairment, lower initial doses are recommended with gradual titration based on response. Regular liver function tests should be performed, as Labetalol may affect hepatic blood flow.

Kidney impairment

Alphadopa tablets can be used in patients with kidney disease if prescribed, though dosage adjustments may be necessary for severe impairment. Regular monitoring of renal function and blood pressure is essential.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

Alphadopa L is a preferred antihypertensive for gestational hypertension with a safe history in pregnancy (Category C). Breastfeeding mothers should use it cautiously, as Labetalol passes into breast milk.

Avoid

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Alphadopa, as it may enhance the hypotensive effects. Sudden discontinuation should be avoided as it may cause rebound Hypertension. Use caution with calcium channel blockers, which may enhance the hypotensive effect.