Drug Groups

approved

Description

A guanidinium antihypertensive agent that acts by blocking adrenergic transmission.

Indication

For the treatment of hypertension.

Pharmacology

Bethanidine is a guanidinium antihypertensive agent that acts by blocking adrenergic transmission. The precise mode of action is not clear. Although bethanidine may produce adverse effects, they are beneficial in severe hypertension and produce fewer side effects than guanethidine.

Affected Organisms

Absorption

Absorbed rapidly in the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration.

Half Life

9 hours (range 7 to 11 hours)