About

Propranolol is a non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker used to treat a variety of conditions, including hypertension, angina pectoris, arrhythmias, migraine prophylaxis, essential tremor, and anxiety. It works by blocking beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which reduces heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure. In the brain, it can reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as palpitations and tremors, by blocking peripheral adrenergic responses. Its mechanism also involves reducing renin release from the kidneys and inhibiting the conversion of thyroxine to triiodothyronine.

Due to its broad effects, careful patient selection and monitoring are essential, especially in individuals with certain pre-existing conditions like asthma or diabetes, to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Uses

Management of hypertension.
Prophylaxis of migraine headaches.
Treatment of essential tremor.
Control of anxiety symptoms (e.g., performance anxiety).

Directions For Use

Take as directed by your physician, usually two to four times daily. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly without consulting your doctor.

Benefits

Effectively lowers blood pressure.
Reduces frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Controls tremors in essential tremor.
Alleviates physical symptoms of anxiety.
Manages certain cardiac arrhythmias.
Prevents recurrent myocardial infarction.

Side Effects

Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
Fatigue
Dizziness
Nausea
Diarrhea
Cold extremities
Insomnia
Nightmares
Bronchospasm (especially in asthmatics)
Hypotension
Sexual dysfunction
Masking of hypoglycemia symptoms

Safety Measures

Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol as it can increase dizziness and lower blood pressure, enhancing sedative effects.
Pregnancy - Use with caution; potential for fetal growth restriction and neonatal bradycardia. Consult a doctor.
Breastfeeding - Generally considered safe, but monitor the infant for bradycardia or hypoglycemia. Consult a healthcare provider.
Liver - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment; dosage adjustment may be necessary due to altered metabolism.
Kidney - Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment; monitor for increased drug levels.
Lung - Contraindicated in patients with asthma or severe COPD due to risk of bronchospasm. Use with extreme caution in other lung conditions.

Disclaimer

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Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.

Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.

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