Propranolol and Increased Heart Rate: What Users Say (Page 3)

• Mal...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 14, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "A month or so later after starting these, they still very much save the day! On a day I know I'll be faced with long, intense meetings or situations that may lead to conflict, I take 10 mg a few hours before, or generally after I get out of bed. 10 mg seems to be active in my system for around 6 - 7 hours, give or take. It's true they may become a crutch, but personally, the physical symptoms are the biggest obstacle within the anxiety disorder. My mind, without this medication, tends to be searching for the beginning of an attack. Once it feels the initial warning signs (racing heart, etc.), my focus goes straight to that. I become disconnected from whatever is at hand and internalize, this just feeds the panic. With these, that fear lessens daily."

• Pro...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• April 2, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "I eventually developed anxiety when it came to big meetings. I'm a social person, so I'm not sure where or how this developed; though I can say I've always dreaded getting up in front of the class in high school and college. Symptoms would be extremely fast heartbeat, sweating, and noticeable voice tremble. Propranolol absolved 95% of these symptoms to where I could actively participate again in the meetings without the threat of embarrassing myself. I only took it when needed, not every day. I also recommend Lexapro as a general anxiety reducer; I'm on a small 10 mg dose of it, and between the two, they have completely turned around my life. Hope this info helps someone suffering as I was; this site got me the info to cure my anxiety."

• kaa...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 23, 2019

For Performance Anxiety "I take Propranolol on an as-needed basis, so only when I have something like a presentation or job interview. I used to get very shaky and sweaty hands, rapid heartbeat, and a very shaky voice. I now take 20 mg of Propranolol 30 mins to an hour before the event and I am a-okay! It's amazing. Of course, there is still mental anxiety, but it is not manifesting physically in the body, so I am much more confident. I don't have the added anxiety of worrying that everyone can see how nervous I am. This was a lifesaver in college and helped me out tremendously. Would highly recommend talking to your doctor if you suffer from this kind of anxiety. After taking this pill and doing many presentations in college, I can now do presentations without it (smaller ones anyway). It is truly a game changer."

• mem...
• November 26, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "I am a corporate recruiter for a large company and have over 10 years of experience. Somehow I was able to fly under the radar in my early career and avoid presentations as much as possible. Now that my salary has increased with experience, my employer obviously wants to see where I can add value to the team. He has asked me to present on some topics, as well as lead our team meetings. People think that I am this confident, outgoing, funny individual. But deep down, I have a paralyzing fear of being put into the spotlight or speaking in public. I experience the typical stuttering, shaky voice, increased heartbeat, sweaty palms. I obviously need my job, so my doctor prescribed me 10 mg. I will come back later to tell you how it worked out."

• Lou...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 17, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "This little pink power pill is incredible! For years, I have avoided social situations or interviews due to the awful anxiety I feel when put on the spot to talk. I would just think of the feeling of panic spreading over me and want to run away. This tablet has changed my life. No more racing heartbeat or awful feeling of panic. So grateful to have this to use when needed most!"

• Mag...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 1, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "This drug saved me today! Always had insane anxiety over public speaking... Today, I gave a presentation to 100 physicians.... My heart was racing and palms were sweating as I stepped onto the stage.... 10 seconds into my presentation, all nerves faded away and I rocked it! I was totally in control of my breathing and speaking pace. Received applause at the end, not to mention compliments from my colleagues who never heard me present. I was EXTREMELY nervous and might have overdosed slightly as I took 120 mg... During the 4 hours before my presentation, I was experiencing serious anxiety about the speech and drug not working.... But boy, did it work! This treatment really works!"

• Isk...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 11, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "Lord have mercy! I never expected that a drug could have a life-changing impact on my life. I have struggled with social anxiety all my life and have usually avoided any situation that would require me to speak, even amongst friends. Recently, my job requires me to make presentations all over the country. This should be good news to any normal person, right? WRONG! It's been a nightmare for me, and I've even contemplated resigning. I was desperate and turned to Google and my destiny to stumble upon propranolol. I read all the reviews yesterday and immediately got a prescription from my doc. I went into my presentation this morning feeling confident, but a little cautious, and it was flawless; no increased heart rate, no difficulty breathing. Thank you, Prop!!!"

• JMR...
• June 18, 2019

For Performance Anxiety "I have taken the drug only a few times, and it has already been a game changer for me. My job requires me to participate in meetings, and sometimes doing small introductions and presentations, and I've been getting severe anxiety (hot face, shaky voice, heart pounding). It was so bad I would get super anxious days before. My anxiety would trigger even if it was with a group of just three people; my mind would go blank. I knew my performance and reputation were suffering, so I decided to see my doctor, and he prescribed 10 mg. I just got out of an introduction meeting before a group of 50+ people and took 2 pills beforehand. I was still very nervous after taking the pills 30 minutes prior, but I eventually felt very calm and was not nearly as nervous when it was my turn to introduce myself. I was able to speak with confidence and not rush through my words, and best of all, no shaky voice! What I also like about this drug is that it doesn't make me drowsy and keeps my mind clear."

• Chi...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 24, 2019

For Performance Anxiety "For so long, I was suffering alone. I am 30 years old, and 5 months ago, I did not know there was such a thing as performance anxiety. The word stage fright was always a myth to even me. Someone who would have an increased heart rate, shake, have a funny voice, and start sweating just wanting to run from a presentation. My anxiety was so severe. I have been taking only 20 mg one hour before known presentations, and it works. Today, I was caught off guard and told to introduce myself 3 hours after taking my 20 mg pill, and I was still able to get through it with no physical symptoms. So grateful for this and the opportunity to be successful in my career."

• Sar...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 17, 2021

For Anxiety "Well, what a game changer. Have anxiety that I found out today has been caused by an overactive thyroid. Been in fight or flight for three months, at least 50% of the day. I took one 10 mg tablet two hours ago. After half an hour, I couldn’t feel my heart pounding anymore. After an hour, I felt a sense of calm come over me. Now, two hours in, I feel totally relaxed, no nausea, no fast heart rate, no hot/cold body temperature changes. No side effects like sickness, feeling worse, etc. Just feel like I can relax properly for the first time in a couple of months. Can we also keep in mind I have a huge fear of taking new meds, not one panic with this. If you're sitting on the fence, don't. Don’t think, just do it. You could very well be pleasantly surprised like I have. I, of course, thought the worst, but it’s the total opposite. And the fact you can take more if needed is a huge bonus. Finally, something to help until my thyroid is under control."

• Yus...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• April 12, 2018

For Anxiety "I have generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and panic attack disorder. I'm on 20 mg Lexapro, 200 mg amitriptyline, and 1-3 mg Clonazepam a day. When I get bad heart palpitations and/or angina (chest pain) from anxiety, I take propranolol 40-120 mg. Usually, 40-80 mg takes care of those heart symptoms but doesn't help any other anxiety symptoms. Just angina and fast heartbeat."

• Ton...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 22, 2021

For Anxiety "I’m not one for doing reviews, but I found all the reviews on here very helpful. So I've been prescribed propranolol for anxiety/panic attacks. Had these tablets in my drawer since January as I was too afraid to take them, as everything else I've tried has just made me feel worse. I tried them today, took 1 x 10mg tablet, and it helped with my physical symptoms of a panic attack. I went shopping, still got the heat rising in my stomach, but no racing heart, and the knot that’s been in my stomach for weeks, like a massive panic attack erupting at any time, was gone. If you have anxiety, don’t read up about it too much and just try them. It’s early days for me, I will update again in a week or two, but giving it a 7 to start with."

• dh1...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 11, 2017

For Performance Anxiety "It's a miracle! I've been struggling with performance anxiety since high school, and it has interfered with my life greatly. I actually enjoy the thought of public speaking, but I fear my own anxiety! Anytime I would speak in front of a crowd, I would automatically go into a state with a pounding heartbeat, sweaty and shaky hands, and a shaky voice. It was visibly uncomfortable to watch. I took 20 mg of propranolol 4 hours before a speech I had to do for work, and 20 mg more an hour before, and poof! All symptoms of anxiety were gone. I was still a little nervous right before the speech naturally, but once I got up there, it went so smoothly. No tremors, no fast talking, no pounding heartbeat. I truly recommend this."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 12, 2017

For Performance Anxiety "I have a very limited space here, so I'll make it simple. I get full-blown panic attacks while public speaking (racing heart, irregular breathing, sweating, brain gets scrambled, and lastly, throat closes). These would cause me to sit down in the middle of a talk, and it is the most embarrassing feeling I have ever felt. Well, I have taken Propranolol twice now for two different talks, and I cannot believe how well it worked, I could literally cry! I take 40 mg at least an hour in advance, and when the moment comes and you're expecting that rush of adrenaline, boom, nothing happens. It's absolutely amazing. If you suffer from this fear of public speaking or full-blown panic attacks, please, please, please try this!!"

• ric...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• September 20, 2018

For Performance Anxiety "Very social guy, and I'm in sales for a living. However, for some reason, I have this nagging performance anxiety that arises randomly when put on the spot to speak after I build something up too much in my head. Or when I know I have some presentation coming up. I'm talking racing heart, catching my breath, barely able to muster a couple of sentences. Feel like a damn fool. (I honestly think it all started when a grade 10 teacher would randomly pick me to read things in front of the class unexpectedly!) I'm a musician and can sing/play no problem in front of people, but when it comes to speaking without propranolol, I'm a mess, with propranolol, I'm quite good. Safe to say this drug has helped me immensely, including in my career, where many times you can't shy away, you have to face your fears."

• Anonymous
• July 21, 2021

For Performance Anxiety "This medication changed my life! I started a doctoral program in January where I have a lot of presentations throughout my schooling and my career. I had two presentations where I could not breathe, was shaking terribly, and was extremely embarrassed by this. I got prescribed propranolol for performance anxiety, and it is a miracle. I just did two presentations today and knocked it out of the park. I had prepared like I usually do and was still anxious leading up (just because of my past experiences), but when it came time to perform, I had no rapid heartbeat or any other physiological responses that cause me to stutter, shake, etc. If you are like me and were wondering if this would even work, it does! I took 20 mg 1.30 hours before and 20 mg 45 mins before. Worked wonders. I am so glad I have this, it changed my life."

• Aeg...
• August 29, 2017

For Performance Anxiety "Performance anxiety was very frustrating for me. I wanted to share my ideas, introduce myself in class, make killer presentations. I knew I had it in me, but the crippling adrenaline blast I would get every time I had to speak up in class left me severely depressed. I felt like a loser. But now, I'm a more confident person, thanks to propranolol. This stuff works. That adrenaline blast - you know it if you're reading this review - heart racing, voice trembling. GONE with this medication. I take one 20 mg dose an hour and a half before a presentation, having to introduce myself to a class, etc., and I am a new person. NO adrenaline kick. My heart stays calm, and so do I. I love it. Please look into it if you have this specific anxiety."

• Nrr...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 19, 2018

For Performance Anxiety "I have had debilitating speech anxiety and social phobia since I was about 10 (now 46). Have been to numerous Drs over the years and tried everything - many antidepressants, Xanax, even MAOIs. Nothing helped. In college, I avoided classes and skipped presentations by making excuses. The new company I work for has an annual meeting, and I have to stand in front of 170 people and introduce myself. After fretting over this for months (contemplating resigning), I knew I had to find something to help. I finally found this board for Propranolol. I went to my PCP, and he prescribed 20 mg one hour prior to the meeting. What a blessing! I was able to stand up there without blushing uncontrollably, no elevated heart rate, and no adrenaline rush. I think 30 mg might have even been better if I had to talk more. I am so happy to have found this! Thanks to all who left your stories on this board!"

• Luc...
• January 23, 2019

For Performance Anxiety "I have promised myself to share my experience when I survive my presentation in front of 10 people. So here I am - male, 40 y, 165 lbs. Had stage fright with the usual symptoms (red face, pounding heart, loss of mother tongue, ...) all my life, was extremely scared and avoided such occasions after high school until my boss asked me in my forties and I couldn’t say no. Read reviews here about this drug and got a prescription for it. The knowledge alone to have it calmed me down until 2 days prior, where I couldn’t get any night sleep. Took 40 mg 3 h and 40 mg 1 h before. Went through it, and I have to say it actually 100% works! No physical symptoms, the nervousness remained however, and I think everyone in the room noticed that presentations are not my daily business. Verdict: it won’t make you the next Obama and you will still be nervous. But you can be absolutely sure that you have no physical symptoms, and with practice, I truly believe anyone can be a good public speaker."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• September 14, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "This drug turned my career around. When asked to present, I would experience terrible voice tremors and shaking. I tried reading books on public speaking, attending classes, and meditating, which all helped, but even if I was doing my best to keep it together during a presentation, I'd always be on the edge, feeling like I could lose control at any second. Heart pounding, sweating, as if I was in terrible danger. I talked to my doctor, mentioned my problem, and got a prescription. This is a miracle drug. I take 30 mg-40 mg 1 hour before a presentation, and I feel like I'm in total control! You still feel a bit nervous in your head, but it curbs all the physical symptoms. It's given me a huge confidence boost."

• Ano...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 3, 2021

For Anxiety "Always hated the spotlight, but unfortunately, I have to be in it sometimes. Each time, I would get the usual symptoms of racing heart, shaky voice/hands, stomach churning. I was prescribed propranolol and was very doubtful it would do anything as it’s not a benzo, etc. Initially, it was 2x10mg, but I realized they don’t work for me until about 40 or 50mg. So, I went with 40-50mg (with the doctor's knowledge). It made a huge difference. You still get mental anxiety and you prepare for all the physical symptoms to hit…then, SUDDENLY…nothing happens, no fast heart, shakes, etc. A couple of minutes later, you realize the physical symptoms aren't coming and you can calm down mentally and just get on with it. Lasts 3-4 hours. Discussed the dosage with the doctor (effect not lasting long/having to take too many 10mg tabs) and was changed to 80mg prolonged release and they work great. Downside: cold feet and hands."

• Dee...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 27, 2016

For Performance Anxiety "Public speaking has been a huge issue for me for years. Even introducing myself was an experience that I would dread for weeks if I knew I had to do it. I've always thought that one day I would adjust and get over it, but I never did. I would lose my breath, forget what I needed to say, sweat, heart rate would skyrocket, etc. My doctor prescribed me this yesterday. I had to speak today, so I tried it for the first time. I still felt somewhat nervous when I was just about to get up, but when I did, I found I was able to get a sentence out because my breath was taken from me. I was able to recall the information I needed. I feel like I'm going to be able to be as successful as I should be now that I've defeated what has become my worst enemy."

• Bra...
• March 22, 2018

For Performance Anxiety "About 13 years ago, I was hired on to a large corporation. It required small presentations, which were initially not an issue. About 3 years ago, I was promoted to my dream position, presenting on a bigger scale. My presenting is over the phone to upper management and senior engineers. During one of my proposals, I had a full panic attack. I couldn't speak or articulate my ideas. My voice was unrecognizable. I struggled, fumbled, and sounded awful. Embarrassed! After that moment, I struggled regularly. Every time I was required to provide a proposal, I had the worst anxiety; panic. I found this site and went to my doctor to discuss if propranolol would be right for me. For me, this medication is a miracle. It did not take away the anxiety, but my symptoms of racing heart, shaky hands, inability to speak, memory loss, or inability to articulate the subject matter were gone. This medication is a career saver for me. I give this tool an A+ for my situation."

• Med...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 1, 2017

For Performance Anxiety "I'm a male medical student in the final months of my training. I've always found it dreadful doing presentations before a professional (other medics) audience, even if it is something like 7 people. I found it impossible - I go into a full-blown panic attack 15 seconds in (crying, voice trembling, heart pounding so much that people have said they can hear it from outside). I had a very important presentation recently, and I took 40 mg 1.5 hours before, and I was EXTREMELY calm. I felt so calm, I felt like I was sitting at home watching a movie while I was on stage! My 'excited' heart rate without propranolol is 120+, but on propranolol, it was 84 maximum. Just use this med under doctors' guidance. Use the lowest working dose. Try it before the event to see how you react to it."

• Pro...
• June 9, 2018

For Performance Anxiety "Discovering this drug has been a career saver. Like others, I promised I would contribute a review to help others if the drug worked. I’ve always suffered bad fight-or-flight symptoms (racing heart, shortness of breath) when public speaking. Unsure when or why this kicked in, but likely due to stress and a higher profile role at work. Been using propranolol situationally (once a month) for a year, which was effective for smaller talks. Today, used it for a large presentation (audience of 100+) and just as effective. Worked myself up into an anxiety frenzy weeks as I wasn’t sure it would work for such a big event, but it came through and did the trick. Get the dosage right. Experiment with dosage that works for you, then relax knowing it’s got you covered. It’s great there’s a way to manage the crippling fear of public speaking and get on with life."