Introduction About PROLOL 10MG TABLET

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is used to manage hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain) and arrhythmia (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 contains Propranolol which belongs to the group of medicines called Beta blockers.

It can also be used to manage heart attacks and migraine headaches. It also controls shakiness of the body by blocking abnormal nerve signals between the brain and the muscles.

Before taking PROLOL 10MG TABLET inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have any other types of anginas (unstable or Prinzmetal angina) or arrhythmia (such as Wolf-Parkinson-White Syndrome), any breathing problems, or diabetes as a precaution.

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with severe asthma, hypotension (low blood pressure) or shock. It is also not suitable for use in patients with heart block, history of heart attack or heart failure.

Do not take PROLOL 10MG TABLET without consulting your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The most common side effects of taking PROLOL 10MG TABLET are cold fingers and toes, slow heartbeat, tiredness, sleep disturbances and Raynaud’s syndrome (numbness and spasm in the fingers followed by warmth and pain). Consult your doctor if any of these side effect troubles you.

Uses Of PROLOL 10MG TABLET

• hypertension (high blood pressure)
• angina pectoris (chest pain)
• arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm)
• migraine (severe headache on side of the head)
• Reduce tremor (shakiness) and anxiety 
• Signs and symptoms of overactive thyroid gland (such as palpitation, nervousness, tremor, fixed stare, severe myopathy and sweating)
• phaeochromocytoma (signs include high blood pressure and fast heart rate caused due to tumour of adrenal glands)
• Hypertrophic Subaortic Stenosis (signs include thickening of heart muscles causing strain on heart while pumping blood)

Benefits of PROLOL 10MG TABLET in Hypertension:

This medication works by reducing the workload on the heart and relaxing blood vessels, resulting in improved blood flow and lower blood pressure levels.

Benefits of PROLOL 10MG TABLET in Angina pectoris:

It reduces chest pain episodes, improves exercise tolerance by minimizing the heart’s exertion, allowing individuals to perform daily activities with reduced discomfort. It also helps manage stress-induced angina by mitigating the physical effects of stress and anxiety on the heart, providing comprehensive protection for patients with this condition.

Benefits of PROLOL 10MG TABLET in arrhythmia:

It helps stabilize the heart by slowing electrical signals in the heart muscle. This action restores a regular rhythm, preventing episodes of rapid or irregular heartbeats.

Benefits of PROLOL 10MG TABLET in migraine:

It helps in preventing migraines by stabilizing blood vessels, modulating nerve activity and blood flow in the brain and reducing the triggers that cause migraine episodes. Many users report a noticeable decline in the frequency and severity of migraines over time.

Benefits of PROLOL 10MG TABLET in tremor and anxiety:

It works by blocking adrenaline’s effect on the body, which calms the overactive signals causing tremors. It is particularly effective in controlling physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart, sweating, and trembling. By calming the heart rate, it helps individuals feel more at ease in stressful situations. Blocks the body’s adrenaline response, it allows users to remain calm and confident during high-pressure scenarios.

How PROLOL 10MG TABLET Works

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is a beta-blocker. It works by blocking the actions of certain chemical messengers (such as adrenaline and noradrenaline) in our body that controls the function of the heart, brain and kidneys and lungs.

In the heart, stopping the actions of these chemical messengers reduces the heart rate and force of contraction. This helps to control abnormal heart rate in patients suffering from arrhythmia.

It can also reduce the risk of abnormal heart signs (such as racing heartbeat, nervousness and high blood pressure) associated with phaeochromocytoma or anxiety.

PROLOL 10MG TABLET can relax the blood vessels supplying the heart and the brain. This action improves blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart and makes the heart to pump blood more efficiently with less pressure. It also helps in managing and managing problems caused due to poor blood circulation such as chest pain (angina), heart attack or migraine.

Additionally, PROLOL 10MG TABLET 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.

How to use PROLOL 10MG TABLET

Take PROLOL 10MG TABLET as directed by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine.

Dosage and Administration

• Follow Prescribed Dosage- it varies based on the medical condition and individual response.
• Always follow your doctor’s prescription. Do not adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Common starting doses include:

                              Hypertension: 40mg twice daily.

                              Migraine Prevention: 40mg two to three times daily.

                              Anxiety: 40mg taken as needed (30-60 minutes before a stressful situation).

                              Arrhythmias: 10-40mg three to four times daily.

• It is best taken on an empty stomach or before meals for better absorption.

Missed Dosage instructions for PROLOL 10MG TABLET:

• If you miss a dose of PROLOL 10MG TABLET take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
• Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• Consistency is essential, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension and arrhythmias. Setting reminders can help ensure timely doses.

Overdosage of PROLOL 10MG TABLET:

• Taking more than the prescribed dose of PROLOL 10MG TABLET can lead to serious complications, including extremely slow heart rate (bradycardia), difficulty breathing, low blood pressure (hypotension), seizures or loss of consciousness.
• What to Do in Case of Overdose: Immediately seek medical attention or contact a poison control center. Symptoms of overdose require urgent intervention, which may include supportive measures like activated charcoal or IV fluids.

Side Effects Of PROLOL 10MG TABLET

Like all medicines, PROLOL 10MG TABLET may cause certain side effects, although not everybody gets them.

The most common side effects of taking PROLOL 10MG TABLET are:

• 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?

• signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• slow heart rate and low blood pressure causing dizziness, light-headedness, fainting or blurred vision
• worsening of existing condition

How To Manage Side Effects

Sleep Disturbances

Practicing good sleep practices such as having a regular bedtime schedule, avoiding naps in the daytime, limiting caffeine and TV before bedtime can help you to sleep peacefully. If the symptom does not improve, consult your doctor.

Tiredness

Include whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables in your meals. These foods help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy or processed foods. Get enough sleep, incorporate light exercise, limit alcohol and stimulants like caffeine

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Monitoring required

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is generally not recommended for use in pregnant women unless considered necessary by the physician, as it may harm the growing baby. Studies in animals have reported developmental abnormalities, including reduced fetal weight and delayed ossification, at high doses of propranolol. Therefore, inform your doctor before taking PROLOL 10MG TABLET if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or planning to have a baby.

Breastfeeding

Use with Caution

PROLOL 10MG TABLET may excrete in breast milk. Limited animal data exists specifically on the excretion of propranolol in milk, but beta-blockers as a class are known to pass into milk. Therefore, it should be used with caution in breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor for advice before taking it.

Driving and Using Machines

Safe

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is unlikely to affect your ability for driving or handling any heavy tools or machines. However, if your experience any dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive or handle any heavy tools or machines as a precaution.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking PROLOL 10MG TABLET as it might make you feel dizzier and drowsier.

Kidney

Use with Caution

PROLOL 10MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Liver

Use with Caution

PROLOL 10MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients with liver problems. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take PROLOL 10MG TABLET if you are allergic to propranolol.

Lungs

Consult your doctor

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients suffering from asthma. It should be used with caution in patients with other respiratory problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, COPD or bronchospasm). Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Heart Disease

Consult your doctor

PROLOL 10MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with sinus bradycardia (slow heart beat due to problems in SA nodes), heart block, congestive heart failure or heart defects. It should be used with caution in patients with a previous history of heart failure or other heart problems. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Use In Pediatrics

Consult your doctor

The safety and effectiveness of PROLOL 10MG TABLET have not been established in children and adolescents (aged below 18 years). Therefore, it should be used in children only if prescribed by the physician.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

PROLOL 10MG TABLET should be used with caution in elderly patients (aged above 65 years). Animal studies indicate increased sensitivity to beta-blockers in older populations due to age-related changes in cardiovascular physiology and drug metabolism. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Safety Advice

Expert advice to follow while taking PROLOL 10MG TABLET:

• Take as prescribed and at the same time daily.
• Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly.
• Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication.
• Be mindful of alcohol, smoking, and other medications.
• Protect yourself in cold weather.
• Inform your doctor about any side effects or new medications.
• Use caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Monitor blood glucose levels if diabetic.
• Visit your healthcare provider regularly for check-ups.

Interactions

A. Drug - Drug interactions:

1. Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., Verapamil, Diltiazem)

Both calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers like Inderal reduce heart rate and blood pressure. When taken together, they can cause excessive bradycardia (slow heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure).

2. Clonidine (Alpha-2 Agonist)

Clonidine can synergistically lower blood pressure. However, abrupt discontinuation of clonidine while on propranolol can cause a rebound hypertensive crisis.

3.Antiarrhythmic Drugs (e.g., Amiodarone, Sotalol)

Combining antiarrhythmic drugs can increase the risk of heart block and severe bradycardia, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.

4.Antidepressants (e.g., Fluoxetine, Paroxetine)

Some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may increase the plasma concentration of propranolol, potentially leading to an enhanced beta-blocking effect and increased risk of bradycardia.

5. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen)

NSAIDs may reduce the effectiveness of Inderal in controlling blood pressure by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which help regulate kidney function.

6.Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics

Beta-blockers like propranolol can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), making it harder to recognize low blood sugar levels, especially in diabetics.

7.Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) (e.g., Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine)

The combination of MAOIs and Inderal can lead to a hypertensive crisis due to excessive catecholamine release.

8.Ergot Alkaloids (e.g., Ergotamine)

Ergotamine, often used to treat migraines, can cause vasoconstriction, and when combined with propranolol, it may further increase the risk of severe hypertension or poor circulation.

Refer the drug-drug interactions of propranolol, drugs.com

Synopsis

More Information

1. Onset of Action: After taking a 40mg tablet of propranolol by mouth, the drug typically begins to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes. The maximum concentration of propranolol in the blood is usually reached around 1 to 2 hours after oral ingestion. At this point, the therapeutic effects are most pronounced, such as a reduction in heart rate, blood pressure, and anxiety symptoms.
2. Duration of Action: The effects of propranolol can last approximately 3 to 6 hours after a single dose. Propranolol also comes in extended-release formulations (such as Inderal LA), which can provide prolonged action, lasting up to 24 hours.

FAQs About PROLOL 10MG TABLET

References

1. KD. Tripathi. Adrenergic drugs and drugs acting on glaucoma. Essentials of medical pharmacology. 7th Edition. 2019. Page – 145-151.

2. Sylvia Ojeda, Emily Blumenthal, Pamela Stevens, Clark R Andersen, Lucy Robles, David N Herndon, and Walter J Meyer, III. The Safety and Efficacy of Propranolol in Reducing the Hypermetabolic Response in the Pediatric Burn Population. NIH. National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PMC. PubMed Central. May 2018. [Accessed on 4th November 2024] click here

3. Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. Propranolol Hydrochloride Tablet. Dailymed.com. [Revised in March 2022]. [Accessed on 4th November 2024] click here

4. Atnahs Pharma UK Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in July 2021] [Accessed on 4th November 2024] click here

5. Accord. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in March 2021] [Accessed on 4th November 2024] click here

6. Accord Healthcare Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in March 2020] [Accessed on 4th November 2024] click here

7. Propranolol. NHS. UK. [Revised in November 2021]. [Accessed on 4th November 2024] click here

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• Cardiac Risk Profile
• Lipid Profile 
• Kidney Function Test 

Author Details

Written By Srilekha. R - B.Pharm

Reviewed By Dr. Sankara Babu Gorle - MBBS, MD(Pharmacology) View profile

Last updated on 18 Dec 2024 | 09:56 AM(IST)