Propranolol (Propranolol hydrochloride) 10mg/ 40mg

Propranolol works by blocking specific receptors in the heart called beta-adrenergic receptors. This is why it is known as a ‘beta blocker’. When the receptors are blocked, the heart beats more slowly (referred to as a ‘slower heart rate’) and less forcefully. This is helpful to lower blood pressure for patients who have hypertension (high blood pressure), Propranolol bnf

Propranolol can also relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety (including situational anxiety treatment and performance anxiety treatment) that are caused by the heart beating fast. Slowing the heartbeat / heart rate and improving the blood flow can reduce palpitations and any tremors or trembling and chest pain (angina).

For migraine headache sufferers, propranolol is thought to stabilise the blood vessels in the brain to prevent their dilation. This in turn reduces the frequency or migraines.

Propranolol Tablets

Propranolol is a prescription medicine usually taken in tablet form. It is best to take it at the same time each day, with or without food. Propranolol tablets should be swallowed with water, and can be broken in half if you have difficulty swallowing. Oral solutions are also available.

Propranolol is available as a standard release tablet, liquid or a sustained release preparation.

The sustained release capsule releases medication steadily over 24 hours so you may only need to take a capsule once daily. It does mean it needs to be taken whole and cannot be broken.

The sustained release tablets dissolve slowly, and so you may only need to take a tablet once a day.

Propranolol 10mg / Propranolol 40mg

Propranolol is a medicine available in tablets of 10mg, 40mg, 80mg and 160mg. Only 80mg and 160mg are available as sustained release preparations.

When taking propranolol to treat high blood pressure, the starting dose is 80mg twice a day. Each dose may later need to be increased to 160mg.

For migraine, the usual starting dose is 40mg taken two or three times a day. For situational anxiety symptoms, it is recommended to start at 40mg once a day, and this can then be increased to 40mg three times a day if necessary.

Propranolol is commonly prescribed, but some patients will experience side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Feeling tired
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
• Getting cold fingers and toes
• Difficulty sleeping
• Nightmares
• Nausea (feeling sick).

These symptoms usually settle within a few days of starting the medication. It is wise to speak to a pharmacist prescriber, medical healthcare professional or your doctor for medical advice if the side effects are bothersome or persist for longer.

A small number of people may experience more serious side effects.

• Shortness of breath or chest pain which worsens on exercise could be a sign of heart problems
• Wheezing, breathlessness or a tight chest (chest pain) could be a sign of lung problems
• Angina
• Rarely, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, which could be a sign of liver problems.

You should tell a healthcare professional, such as your doctor, straight away if you notice these symptoms or signs.

Very rarely a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may occur, causing difficulty breathing or swelling inside your mouth. You must call 999 if this occurs.

Beta blockers, including propranolol, are not always suitable for patients who have chronic conditions such as asthma, a pre-existing heart condition (such as a slow heartbeat or heart block, a heart rhythm disorder, heart failure), low blood pressure, low blood sugar, muscle weakness, diabetes or liver or kidney disease. Consult with your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare professional who will give you appropriate medical advice prior to starting any potential treatment.

Every patient suffering from anxiety disorders, heart problems and migraines has a unique individual experience when taking Propranolol as a treatment.

Propranolol for Anxiety Reviews

Patients who are taking propranolol for anxiety symptoms have their own personal experiences with the medication. You can find a selection of user reviews over at Drugs.com.

Propranolol for Migraines Reviews

Every patient taking propranolol to treat symptoms of a migraine has a unique experience. Take a look at some propranolol for migraine reviews over at Drugs.com.