Propranolol is used for the treatment of high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, pheochromocytoma, some kinds of tremor and hypertrophic obstructive stenosis (heart muscle disease). Propranolol is also used for the prevention of angina (chest pain), migraine, headache and rehabilitation after the heart attack. Propranolol belongs to the class of beta-blockers. It works by relaxation of blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, which improves blood circulation and reduces blood pressure.
High blood pressure can result in the damage of brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other organs, which in its turn can cause heart disease, infarction, cardiac insufficiency, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision and other problems. In addition to the use of drugs, the changes of lifestyle also help to control the blood pressure. These changes include the low-fat and low-sodium diets, maintaining healthy weight, physical activities (at least 30 minutes every day), giving up smoking and alcohol abuse.
Main contraindications every patient should be aware of (not all of them are identical for all beta-blockers):
Allergic reactions to Propranolol
Severe bradycardia- if the heart rate is less than 45 beats per minute
Arterial hypotension- systolic (upper) blood pressure less than 100-90 mm Hg.
Sinus node disease
AV blockade of II degree and more
Acute cardiovascular insufficiency
Bronchial asthma and bronchoobstructive syndrome
Pregnancy and lactation
The use of Propranolol
Propranolol is issued in the form of pills, solution (liquid), long-acting oral capsules. Long-acting capsules are usually taken once a day before bed with or without meal. The pills and solution of Propranolol can be taken 2, 3 or 4 times a day at approximately the same time. Follow the guidelines in instruction or consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Take the drug in strict accordance to the annotation. Don’t take it bigger or smaller amount than prescribed by the doctor.
The side effects of Propranolol
Propranolol can cause side effects. Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:
[tie_list type=”checklist”]
- dizziness,
- fatigue,
- diarrhea,
- constipation.
[/tie_list]
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, please consult a doctor immediately:
[tie_list type=”checklist”]
- difficulty breathing or swallowing,
- rash,
- urticaria,
- itching,
- swollen face, throat, tongue or lips,
- weakness,
- weight gain,
- irregular heartbeat.
[/tie_list]
