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Sectral

Generic name: Acebutolol hydrochloride

Sectral, a type of medication known as a beta blocker, is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. When used to treat high blood pressure, it is effective used alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications, particularly with a thiazide-type diuretic. Beta blockers decrease the force and rate of heart contractions, thus reducing pressure within the circulatory system.

Sectral Dosage

ADULTS

HypertensionThe usual initial dose for mild to moderate high blood pressure is 400 milligrams per day. It may be taken in a single daily dose or in 2 doses of 200 milligrams each. The usual daily dosage ranges from 200 to 800 milligrams. People with severe high blood pressure may take up to 1,200 milligrams per day divided into 2 doses. Sectral may be taken alone or in combination with another high blood pressure medication. Irregular heartbeatThe usual starting dosage is 400 milligrams per day divided into 2 doses. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose to 600 to 1,200 milligrams per day. If your doctor wants you to stop taking this medication, he or she will have you taper off over a period of 2 weeks.

CHILDREN The safety and effectiveness of Sectral have not been established in children.

OLDER ADULTS Your doctor will determine the dosage based on your particular needs. Do not take more than 800 milligrams per day.

Uses of Sectral

• Acebutolol is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart rhythm disorders.
• It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Side Effects of Sectral

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Sectral. Side effects may include:

• Abnormal vision, chest pain, constipation, cough, decreased sexual ability, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, frequent urination, gas, headache, indigestion, joint pain, nasal inflammation, nausea, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, strange dreams, swelling due to fluid retention, trouble sleeping, weakness

Warnings and precautions before taking Sectral:

• If you have had severe congestive heart failure in the past, Sectral should be used with caution.
• Sectral should not be stopped suddenly. This can cause increased chest pain and heart attack. Dosage should be gradually reduced.
• If you suffer from asthma, seasonal allergies, other bronchial conditions, coronary artery disease, or kidney or liver disease, Sectral should be used with caution.
• This medicine may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar such as increased heart rate, tremor and nausea. People with diabetes should carefully monitor their blood sugar.

Drug Interaction :- If Sectral is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Sectral with the following:

• Albuterol (the airway-opening drug Ventolin)
  
• Certain blood pressure medicines such as reserpine (Diupres)
  
• Certain over-the-counter cold remedies and nasal drops such as Afrin, Neo-Synephrine,
• and Sudafed
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and Voltaren
  
• Oral diabetes drugs such as Micronase

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. There is no specific information available on Sectral; however, overdose symptoms seen with other beta blockers include:

• Difficulty breathing, extremely slow heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, seizures, severe congestive heart failure