Propranolol

About Propranolol

Propranolol is used to treat irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia), chest pain (angina), an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), and high blood pressure (hypertension), protect against bleeding in certain liver disorders.

How does Propranolol work?

Propranolol blocks the site of action on the heart for a chemical (norepinephrine) responsible for the contraction of the heart and the rate of heartbeats.

This reduces the work rate of the heart and reduces the oxygen demand of the heart muscles, which is helpful in chest pain. Blocking of this chemical also helps control the heart rhythm and blood pressure.

An overactive thyroid can cause your heart to beat faster than usual.

What are the side-effects I may experience?

You may experience:

• Sleep disturbances or nightmares

• Breathlessness

• Fatigue

• Cold feeling in your fingers and toes.

  You can massage your fingers or place them under warm running water. Caffeine and smoking can worsen this side effect.

Useful information

You shouldn’t abruptly stop taking any high blood pressure medications. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if any side effects of medications become unbearable.

Are there any medications and foods I should avoid?

• You may eat normally while taking propranolol. Excess salt can cause hypertension. It is advisable to reduce your salt intake.
• You should not take propranolol if you are an asthmatic. Talk to your doctor if you have diabetes. This medication can affect your blood sugar control.
• Alcohol can worsen dizzy side effects. Alcohol also worsens high blood pressure. Consumption of alcohol is therefore not recommended.

I forgot a dose. What should I do?

If you forget to take your prescription, take it as soon as you remember.

If you miss a dose, don’t take a double dose.

If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and take the next one.

Can I drive or operate machinery?

You must not drive or operate machinery if you experience dizziness while taking propranolol.

Should I be bothered about possible addiction or dependence?

Propranolol isn’t addictive.

Will my sexual performance, fertility or contraceptive be impaired?

• Propranolol hasn’t been proven to affect sexual performance.

  Speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you encounter any problems. You must not stop taking your medications.

• Propranolol doesn’t affect the effectiveness of contraceptives.

  Certain contraceptives are not recommended for women with high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any contraceptives long-term.

• Propranolol has not been proven to affect fertility.

Can I use this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

• You must not take propranolol when pregnant unless prescribed by your doctor.

  Propranolol can reduce the blood supply to your baby. Propranolol can cause premature births and low blood pressure to your unborn baby.

• It is not recommended to use propranolol when breastfeeding without a prescription from your doctor.

  Propranolol is secreted in breast milk. You should inform your doctor if you notice your baby becoming unusually sleepy or weak.