Generic Name

Pindolol

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Classification

FDA Approved Indications

• Hypertension
• Angina pectoris

Mechanism of Action

Pindolol is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker that decreases heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart and other tissues, and also has intrinsic sympathomimetic activity.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Initially 5 mg twice daily, titrated as needed up to 20 mg twice daily.

Pediatric: Not established for pediatric use.

Geriatric: Start at lower doses; monitor for adverse effects.

Renal Impairment: Adjust dose cautiously depending on severity.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific adjustments established.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed orally.

Distribution: Widely distributed, crosses blood-brain barrier.

Metabolism: Partially metabolized in the liver.

Excretion: Primarily excreted via the kidneys.

Half Life: 3-4 hours.

Contraindications

• Bronchial asthma
• Significant cardiac failure
• Shock (including cardiogenic shock)
• Sick sinus syndrome without pacemaker

Precautions

• Use with caution in diabetes (masking hypoglycemia symptoms), peripheral vascular disease, thyrotoxicosis, or renal impairment.

Adverse Reactions - Common

• Dizziness (Occasional)
• Fatigue (Occasional)
• Bradycardia (Uncommon)
• Gastrointestinal discomfort (Uncommon)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

• Respiratory distress, bronchospasm in asthmatics (Rare)
• Severe bradycardia or hypotension (Rare)
• Heart failure exacerbation (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Other antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, digoxin, catecholamine depleting agents.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Patient/Family Teaching

• Take medication exactly as prescribed.
• Do not discontinue abruptly to avoid rebound hypertension.
• Monitor blood pressure regularly.
• Report symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: May alter blood glucose and lipid profiles.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe bradycardia, hypotension, bronchospasm, heart failure symptoms.

Treatment: Discontinue medication; provide supportive care; administer atropine for bradycardia; vasoconstrictors may be used for hypotension; dialysis is not effective.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Stability: Stable for shelf life as indicated by manufacturer.