Pindolol
VISKEN
What it isNonselective beta antagonist with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity and 5-HT1A antagonism; hypertension.
Why this onePartial beta agonism preserves resting heart rate, while 5-HT1A blockade has been used for antidepressant augmentation.
What limits itIntrinsic sympathomimetic activity makes it poor after myocardial infarction; nonselective blockade also makes asthma hazardous.
FDA-approved for
- hypertension (1977)
Off-label
- antidepressant augmentation
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hypertension | Adult | 5 mg BID | Adjust to response | 60 mg/day |
Titration Increase in increments of 10 mg/day at 3- to 4-week intervals
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Contraindications
- Bronchial asthma
- Overt cardiac failure
- Cardiogenic shock
- Second- and third-degree heart block
- Severe bradycardia
Adverse reactions
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Edema
- Muscle pain
- Nervousness
- Joint pain
- Dyspnea
Pregnancy Category B; use during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies risk.
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskIntrinsic sympathomimetic activity makes it poor post-infarction
Cost, est. cash$10–$300/month
Generic entry1992
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilityBradycardia, hypotension and bronchospasm; overdose may cause conduction block or cardiogenic shock.
Mechanism of action: Pindolol ballicule
Open Pindolol in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
LOL hat → beta blocker
