GENERIC NAME: nadolol
BRAND NAME: Corgard
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Nadolol is a beta-adrenergic
receptor
blocking agent that primarily blocks the action of the
sympathetic nervous
system on the heart. Nadolol reduces the heart rate and the
force of
contractions of the heart's muscle, thereby lowering blood
pressure.
Angina (heart pain) occurs when the heart's need for oxygen
exceeds the
supply of oxygen. By slowing the heart rate and decreasing the
force of
muscle contractions, nadolol reduces the demand of the heart's
muscle for
oxygen and thereby prevents angina.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Round tablets: 20, 40, 80, 120, and
160mg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored between 2° (36°F)
and 30°C (86°F) and protected from light.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Nadolol is prescribed for patients with
high
blood pressure (hypertension). It is used to treat chest pain
(angina)
related to coronary artery disease. Nadolol also has been used
to treat
patients with tremor, to prevent migraine headaches, and to
prevent
anxiety in anxiety-provoking situations.
DOSING: Nadolol usually is taken once each day and may
be taken
with or without meals. When used to prevent anxiety, it can be
taken two
hours prior to the anxiety-provoking situation. In persons with
even a
moderate degree of reduced kidney function (as detected by
laboratory
tests), the dose of nadolol may be reduced or the interval
between doses
(usually about 24 hours) may need to be extended (e.g. to 36 or
48 hours).
DRUG INTERACTIONS: The blood pressure-lowering effects
of
nadolol are additive with other medications that lower blood
pressure, and
combinations of these other medications with nadolol often is
used
purposefully in treating persons with high blood pressure. When
used in
combination with diltiazem (Cardizem; Tiazac; Dilacor),
verapamil (Calan; Isoptin; Verelan; Covera), amiodarone (Cordarone), or digoxin
(Lanoxin),
however, nadolol or other beta-blockers can cause complete
block of the
heart's electrical system. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs)
such as ibuprofen (Motrin; Advil) and naproxen (Naprosyn; Anaprox; Aleve),
can prevent the blood pressure-reducing effects of beta-
blockers such as
nadolol.
PREGNANCY: There is very little information about
nadolol given
to pregnant women. Physicians may elect to use it if its
benefits are
deemed to outweigh potential risks.
NURSING MOTHERS: Nadolol is excreted into breast milk.
The
manufacturers do not recommend the use of nadolol while breast-
feeding
because of the potential risk of toxicity in the nursing
infant.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nadolol is generally well tolerated, and
side
effects are mild and transient. Rare side effects include
abdominal
cramps, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, insomnia, nausea,
depression,
dreaming, memory loss, fever, impotence, lightheadedness, slow
heart rate,
low blood pressure, numbness, tingling, cold extremities, sore
throat, and
shortness of breath or wheezing.
If it is necessary to discontinue nadolol, the dose usually is
reduced
gradually over several weeks. Nadolol can mask the early
warning symptoms
of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially in diabetics who
are prone
to hypoglycemia, and can increase or decrease blood sugar.
Therefore, it
should be used with caution in diabetic patients.
Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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- Beta Blockers - Learn more about Beta Blockers, a drug that treats angina and other heart rhythm disorders, migraines, high blood pressure, panic attacks, and tremors. Generic and brand names are included in the article. Source:MedicineNet
- High Blood Pressure - High Blood Pressure: Medical information about hypertension, its treatment, therapies and prevention Source:MedicineNet
- Stress - Read about stress symptoms, signs, causes and treatment. Get information on stress management tips, the effects on the body and stress types (teen, job, PTSD). Source:MedicineNet
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