Drug
Pindolol
Pronounced
"PIN-doe-lole"
Uses
This medication is used alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. Pindolol belongs to a class of medications called beta-blockers. It works by blocking the effects of certain natural substances (such as epinephrine) on the heart and blood vessels. This results in a lowering of the heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.
Warning
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when you suddenly stop this drug. Some people who have suddenly stopped taking similar drugs have had chest pain, heart attack, and irregular heartbeat. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this drug, your doctor may direct you to gradually decrease your dose over 1 to 2 weeks.
When gradually stopping this medication, it is recommended that you temporarily limit physical activity to decrease strain on the heart. Get medical help right away if you develop chest pain/tightness/pressure, chest pain spreading to the jaw/neck/arm, unusual sweating, trouble breathing, or fast/irregular heartbeat.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for a certain type of chest pain (angina). It may reduce how often chest pain happens and improve your ability to exercise.
How to Use This Medication
See also Warning section.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. It may take 1-2 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).