Uses of Propranolol

Propranolol is used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain, and irregular heart rhythm. It can also be used to control abnormal increase in blood pressure and/or heart rate caused due to various underlying conditions such as anxiety, overactive thyroid gland, phaeochromocytoma (tumours of adrenal gland) or Hypertrophic Subaortic Stenosis (thickening of heart muscles). It is used to prevent heart attack, migraine, reduces tremor (shakiness) and anxiety and also reduce gut bleeding.

Therapeutic Category

Propranolol: Beta blockers

How Propranolol works

Propranolol is a beta-blocker. It works by blocking the actions of certain chemical messengers (such as adrenaline and noradrenaline) in the heart. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slows down the heart rate and helps to improve blood flow and decreases blood pressure, controls abnormal heart rate and also helps in treating and preventing problems caused due to poor blood circulation such as chest pain (angina), heart attack or migraine. Propranolol reduces the production of thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine) in patients suffering from overactive thyroid gland. It also stops the transfer of abnormal nerve signals between the brain and the muscles which helps in reducing tremors.

Common side effects of Propranolol

• fingers and toes may become cold
• slow heartbeat
• signs of Raynaud’s syndrome (numbness and spasm in the fingers followed by warmth and pain)
• sleep disturbances, nightmares
• fatigue (tiredness)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage

Health Tips for Propranolol

• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Propranolol as it can increase the sedative effects of the medication and may cause dizziness and drowsiness
• Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or during exercise, to prevent dehydration