Iabtyl contains Labetalol, which is a “dual-action” medication used to treat high blood pressure. It acts as both an alpha-blocker and a beta-blocker. By blocking these receptors, it relaxes the blood vessels and slows down the heart rate, which significantly lowers blood pressure. The injectable form is an emergency medication used to treat “Hypertensive Crisis”—a situation where blood pressure is so high it could cause a stroke or organ damage.

It is also the “gold standard” for treating high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia/eclampsia) because it is safer for the baby than many other blood pressure drugs. When given as an IV, it starts working within minutes. Because it works so powerfully, the patient’s heart rate and blood pressure must be checked every few minutes by a nurse or doctor. Common side effects include dizziness, a tingling sensation in the scalp, or fatigue. It should not be used in patients with asthma or certain heart rhythm problems.