Begin with a slow IV bolus of 20mg over 2 minutes. Monitor blood pressure closely.
If blood pressure response is inadequate after 10 minutes, administer another 40mg bolus over 2 minutes. Continue to monitor blood pressure carefully.
Repeat bolus doses of 40mg at 10-minute intervals until the desired blood pressure reduction is achieved or a maximum cumulative dose of 300mg is reached. For patients requiring ongoing pressure management, continuous infusion may be initiated.
Continuous Infusion
After administering the bolus doses, initiate a continuous infusion of Labetalol at 2mg/min. Titrate the infusion rate upwards, in increments of 2mg/min every 10-25 minutes, to reach the desired blood pressure control. The maximum infusion rate is generally 8mg/min.
Important Considerations
Closely monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and rhythm throughout Labetalol administration. Bradycardia and hypotension are potential side effects. Adjust the infusion rate accordingly or temporarily discontinue the infusion if these occur.
Labetalol should be administered only under close medical supervision in a setting where appropriate monitoring capabilities are available. Be prepared to manage potential adverse events such as hypotension, bradycardia, heart block, and bronchospasm. Have emergency support readily available.
