What class of drug is Labetalol?

Labetalol is classified as an alpha/beta adrenergic blocker, which means it simultaneously blocks both alpha and beta adrenergic receptors. This dual action results in a unique mechanism of lowering blood pressure by reducing peripheral vascular resistance (through alpha blockade) and decreasing heart rate and contractility (through beta blockade). This makes labetalol particularly useful in the management of hypertension, including in situations like hypertensive emergencies or in patients who are pregnant.

While the other classes listed—ACE inhibitors, beta-selective blockers, and calcium channel blockers—are important in treating hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases, labetalol's specific actions as both an alpha and beta blocker set it apart. It does not fall exclusively into one of these other categories, which is essential for understanding its pharmacological profile and therapeutic applications.