Sectral (Acebutolol) Drug Information: Overdosage and Contraindications

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May 27, 2012

Sectral

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Beta blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are a class of drugs that works by blocking the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and epinephrine from binding to receptors. There are three known types of beta receptors, known as beta₁ (β₁), beta₂ (β₂) and beta₃ (β₃).

β₁-adrenergic receptors are located commonly in the heart and kidneys.
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When the neurotransmitters are prevented from binding to the receptors, it in turn causes the effects of adrenaline (epinephrine) to be blocked. This action allows the he...

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OVERDOSE

No specific information on emergency treatment of overdosage is available for Sectral (acebutolol) . However, overdosage with other β-blocking agents has been accompanied by extreme bradycardia, advanced atrioventricular block, intraventricular conduction defects, hypotension, severe congestive heart failure, seizures, and in susceptible patients, bronchospasm and hypoglycemia. Although specific information on the emergency treatment of Sectral (acebutolol) overdose is not available, on the basis of the pharmacological actions and the observations in treating overdoses with other β-blockers, the following general measures should be considered:

Empty stomach by emesis or lavage.
Bradycardia: IV atropine (1 to 3 mg in divided doses). If antivagal response is inadequate, administer isoproterenol cautiously since larger than usual doses of isoproterenol may be required.
Persistent hypotension in spite of correction of bradycardia: Administer vasopressor (e.g., epinephrine, levarterenol, dopamine, or dobutamine) with frequent monitoring of blood pressure and pulse rate.
Bronchospasm: A theophylline derivative, such as aminophylline and/or parenteral β2-stimulant, such as terbutaline.
Cardiac failure: Digitalize the patient and/or administer a diuretic. It has been reported that glucagon is useful in this situation.

Sectral (acebutolol) is dialyzable.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Sectral (acebutolol) is contraindicated in: 1) persistently severe bradycardia; 2) second- and third-degree heart block; 3) overt cardiac failure; and 4) cardiogenic shock. (See WARNINGS.)

Last reviewed on RxList: 9/19/2007
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.