About esmolol
Short-acting beta-1 blocker
Used for
- Rapid control of heart rate in certain abnormal rhythms
- Short-term control of fast heart rate or high blood pressure during surgery
Usual adult dose
Given by intravenous infusion; dosing is adjusted to response, often after a loading dose. Hospital protocols vary.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
- Nausea
- Infusion-site irritation
Important warnings
- Requires close monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure
- May worsen heart failure or cause heart block
- Use caution with asthma or other breathing disorders
- Do not stop prolonged infusions abruptly without clinical supervision
Pregnancy
Use only when needed; evidence is limited, and fetal growth or heart rate may require monitoring.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; discuss use with a healthcare professional.
Interactions
- Other medicines that slow heart rate or lower blood pressure
- Verapamil or diltiazem may increase risk of slow heart rate or heart block
- Insulin and diabetes medicines: esmolol may mask some signs of low blood sugar
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.