.
Acebutolol is used to treat high blood pressure and certain forms of heart arrhythmia, and is in a family of drugs known as beta-adrenergic blockers.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Potassium
Some beta-adrenergic blockers (called “nonselective” beta blockers) decrease the
uptake of potassium from the blood into the cells,1 leading to excess potassium in
the blood, a potentially dangerous condition known as hyperkalemia.2 People taking
beta-blockers should therefore avoid taking potassium supplements, or eating large quantities
of fruit (e.g.,
bananas), unless directed to do so by their doctor.
Interactions with Herbs
Pleurisy root
As pleurisy root and other plants in the Aesclepius genus contain cardiac glycosides,
it is best to avoid use of pleurisy root with heart medications such as
beta-blockers.3
Interaction with Foods and Other Compounds
Taking acebutolol with food slows the rate of absorption and reduces the maximum blood levels of the drug, though overall absorption is not affected.4 However, the blood level of an active breakdown product of acebutolol is reduced.5 Though the activity of acebutolol is affected by food, people taking the drug on a daily basis are not likely to experience a reduction in the effectiveness of the drug if it is taken with a meal.
Summary of Interactions for Acebutolol
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | High-potassium foods* Pleurisy root* Potassium supplements* |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | Food |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Rosa RM, Silva P, Young JB, et al. Adrenergic modulation of extrarenal potassium disposal. N Engl J Med 1980;302:431–4.
2. Lundborg P. The effect of adrenergic blockade on potassium concentrations in different conditions. Acta Med Scand Suppl 1983;672:121–6 [review].
3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 213–4.
4. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale. NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 3317–9.
5. Zaman R, Wilkins MR, Kendall MJ, Jack DB. The effect of food and alcohol on the pharmacokinetics of acebutolol and its metabolite, diacetolol. Biopharm Drug Dispos 1984;5:91–5.
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