The medication pindolol is a nonselective beta-blocker with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA). Beta-blockers with ISA inhibit the effect of epinephrine and norepinephrine hormones on the sympathetic nervous system, which reduces stress on the cardiovascular system. It is prescribed for the management of cardiac arrthymias and hypertension, and to protect the cardiovascular system after a heart attack. Suddenly discontinuing this medicine can cause a heart attack or severe chest pain, and it should only be stopped under a doctor’s supervision.
Pindolol is not appropriate for everyone, and a physician will carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of the medication on an individual basis before prescribing it. People with bronchitis or emphysema should not take pindolol. The medication can make it difficult to detect low blood sugar levels, and should be used with care by people with diabetes. Diabetics may have increased incidents of high blood sugar while on pindolol. This blood pressure medication is not regularly prescribed for people with liver disease, kidney disease, or a thyroid condition.
During treatment, blood tests will be done regularly to check for elevated liver enzymes that would indicate liver damage. Following a diet and exercise program while being treated with this medicine has been shown to increase the beneficial effects. The prescribing physician will be able to recommend a program suitable for each person taking the medicine.
People taking pindolol should be aware of the rare and sometimes life threatening side effects. An anaphylactic allergic reaction is possible at any time while taking this medicine, resulting in swelling of the lips, face, mouth, or throat. A person may have difficulty breathing or a sudden rash of hives may appear. Emergency medical assistance should be received if any of these symptoms occur.
Other side effects that need to be immediately reported to the doctor are severe dizziness or fainting episodes. If there is any chest pain felt, or a rapid or slow heartbeat is noticed, then a doctor’s care should be obtained. Pain in the left arm or hand and swelling of the feet and ankles may indicate there is cardiovascular trouble beginning, and the symptoms need to be evaluated by a physician immediately.
Another side effect of pindolol that should be reported to the doctor is a noticeable loss of circulation to the fingers and toes, which can result in a bluish color or coldness. Muscle pain or cramping may be noticed while taking this medication. Some people may have mood changes or depression that begins when the medication regimen is started.
Pindolol should be taken with care by pregnant women because it is not known if the medicine passes through the placenta to the unborn child. The doctor will help evaluate the benefits versus the risk to the baby. This medication is secreted in small amounts in breast milk, so it is not recommended for nursing mothers.