Treatment of phaeochromocytoma and of clonidine withdrawal hypertension with labetalol

Abstract

1 Labetalol has been used as medical treatment in five patients with phaeochromocytoma. 2 In four of the five patients, blood pressure was satisfactorily controlled, and symptoms and signs were relieved. 3 Labetalol also provided satisfactory cover across surgery for the removal of tumours in two cases. 4 In one instance, it was not possible to give sufficient labetalol orally to suppress the attacks of phaeochromocytoma. This patient was not effectively controlled at operation with a combination of propranolol and phenoxybenzamine. 5 Intravenous labetalol rapidly lowered blood pressure and relieved symptoms in a patient experienced hypertensive crisis after clonidine withdrawal. 6 Labetalol is a useful addition to the medical treatment of phaeochromocytoma.