Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic studies of labetalol in hypertensive subjects.

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • clinical trial
    • Vol. 8, 157S-161S
Abstract
1 The pharmacokinetics of labetalol were studied in twelve hypertensive patients, ten of whom were not receiving other therapy. 2 Following intravenous administration there was a three- to fourfold variation in terminal elimination half-life, volume of distribution and total plasma clearance. The mean elimination half-life was 3.25 hours. 3 Following oral administration the drug was absorbed rapidly. Systemic availability varied from 11-86% (mean 33%). 4 Plasma levels correlated poorly with the acute effect on BP, raising the possibility of labetalol acting in a deep tissue compartment or alternatively an active metabolite contributing to its effect.