Common use
Propranolol acts blocking beta-adrenergic substances such as adrenaline (epinephrine), a key agent in the ”sympathetic” portion of the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system which is responsible for work of the heart. The medication is used to treat tremors, chest pain, hypertension, heart rhythm disorders, ischemic heart disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, myocardiodystrophy and other conditions.
Dosage and direction
Take orally disregarding time of your meal. Take Propranolol with a full glass of water at the same time every day. Do not chew, crush, break, or open a Propranolol capsule. Swallow the tab whole.
Do not stop to take the medication suddenly as it may cause problems to your heart.
Precautions
Do not use this drug if you suffer from asthma or certain heart conditions, especially second or third degree heart block, liver or kidney failure. Avoid drinking alcohol. Do not stop taking the medication even if you feel better as hypertension may have no symptoms.
Contraindications
Sinus bradycardia, incomplete or complete atrioventricular block (problems with conduction of excitation in the excitation-conduction system of the heart), severe right and left ventricular failure, bronchial asthma and a tendency to bronchospasm, pregnancy, disorders of peripheral arterial blood flow. In patients with spastic colitis (inflammation of the colon, characterized by its contraction) administration of Propranolol is not recommended.
Possible side effect
Nausea, vomit, diarrhea, bradycardia (a slow heartbeat), dizziness allergy itchy skin, bronchospasm (contraction of bronchus). Depression is possible.
Drug interaction
Alcohol and aluminum reduce the absorption of propranolol. Propranolol increases the blood levels of theophylline and lidocaine. Phenytoin, phenobarbital, and rifampin reduce level of Propranolol in blood. Cimetidine and chlorpromazine on the contrary increase the blood levels of Propranolol.
Missed dose
If you missed a dose of short acting Propranolol take the missed dose as soon as you remember but not if only about four hours remained till next dose. If so skip the missed dose and return to your schedule. If extended release Propranolol dose is missed then take the missed dose the soonest but not if less than eight hours remained till next dose. Never take extra dose to compensate the missed one.
Overdose
In case of severe symptoms such as heartbeats, dizziness, weakness, or fainting, seek for immediate medical attention.
Storage
Keep at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight.
Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.