Propranolol Patient Tips

How it works

Propranolol works on specific receptors (called beta-1 receptors) to slow heart rate and lower blood pressure. Propranolol has a "nonselective" action - which means as well as affecting beta receptors in the heart it also affects beta receptors in the lungs (this may cause breathing difficulties in people with preexisting lung disease). Experts are not sure how propranolol works to prevent migraine. Propranolol belongs to a group of drugs known as Beta Blockers.

Upsides

Used in the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and angina. Also used to stabilize certain arrhythmias and for the prevention of migraine.

Downsides

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include:

• Not usually recommended for people with asthma or with other diseases that cause breathing difficulty.
• Abrupt discontinuation has been associated with exacerbation of angina, and rarely, heart attacks. Only discontinue on a doctor's advice and reduce dosage gradually over a few weeks.
• Can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperthyroidism (high tyhroid levels), so must be used with caution in people with diabetes or thyroid disease.
• May aggravate peripheral circulatory disorders.
• May cause a number of unwanted heart-related effects and may affect breathing, so response must be monitored.
• Side effects include vivid dreams, tiredness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and impotence.

Notes: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of developing a wider range of side effects. For a complete list of all side effects, click here.

Bottom Line

Propranolol is mainly used for blood pressure and angina control; however, it also has a role in migraine prevention. Propranolol may cause vivid dreams and is not usually recommended for people with preexisting breathing difficulties.

Tips

• May be taken with or without food.
• Should always be used as part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction program which includes diabetes management, smoking cessation, exercise, and other drug therapies. May be used in additional to other blood pressure lowering drugs.
• Seek medical advice immediately if shortness of breath develops.
• Seek medical advice if any new numbness, pain, or skin color change or sensitivity occurs in fingers or toes.
• Swallow extended-release capsules whole: do not prise apart or chew.
• Call your doctor immediately if a severe rash develops or you notice a painful reddening of the skin or blisters or ulcers anywhere on your body.

Response and Effectiveness

Peak concentrations reached within six hours following administration of extended-release (ER) capsules; effects last for 24 hours following ER dosing so ER capsules may be given once daily.