Propranolol Hydrochloride

Pronunciation

Propranolol hydrochloride 10mg

Common Strengths of Propranolol

Propranolol comes in various dosages, including 10mg, 40mg, and 160mg tablets. It is also available in extended-release capsules and oral solution 5mg/5ml [1][3].

Drug Trade Names of Propranolol

• Indral
• Inderal LA
• Inderal XL [2]

Mechanism of Action

Propranolol is a nonselective beta- blocker. It works by blocking the action of epinephrine (adrenaline) on beta-1 and beta-2 receptors, which reduces heart rate, myocardial contractility, and blood pressure. It also inhibits renin release by the kidneys and diminishes sympathetic nerve outflow from the brain [3].

Route of Administration

• Oral (tablets, extended-release capsules, oral solution)

Dosages

• Hypertension:
  • Initial dose of 40mg twice daily, which can be increased to 120-240mg per day.
• Heart Failure:
  • Not typically used for heart failure.
• Diabetic Kidney Disease:
  • Not specifically indicated for diabetic kidney disease.
• Anxiety:
  • 10mg tablets can be used to relieve physical symptoms of anxiety, with dosages up to 40mg before an event[1][3].

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common (≥1/100 to <1/10)	Problems sleeping
	Nightmares
	Cold hands and feet
	Tiredness
	Dizziness[1]
Uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100)	Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)
	Bronchospasm [1] [3]
Rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000)	Hallucinations
	Psychosis
	Paresthesia of hands
	Thrombocytopenic purpura [3]
Very Rare (<1/10,000)	Agranulocytosis
	Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
	Toxic epidermal necrolysis
	Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) [3]

Pharmacokinetics

Propranolol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma levels reached in 2-4 hours. It is extensively metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. The elimination half-life is approximately 6-7 hours[3].

Drug Management

Safety

• Propranolol has a boxed warning about not stopping it abruptly, as it may worsen angina or cause a heart attack. Tapering off under medical supervision is required.[1]
• Contraindicated in patients with asthma, certain heart conditions (e.g., heart block, bradycardia), and severe peripheral arterial disorders.
• Caution is advised in patients with diabetes and thyroid disorders[3].

Pregnancy

Propranolol can cross the placenta and may cause fetal bradycardia. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus[3].

Breastfeeding

Propranolol is present in breast milk at low levels. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding mothers[3].

Children and Elderly

• Safety and efficacy in children have not been established.
• Elderly patients may require lower doses due to age-related decreases in renal function[3].

Renal Impairment

Dose adjustment may be necessary in patients with severe renal impairment[3].

Monitoring Requirements

Monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and renal function regularly[3].

Drug Interactions

Propranolol interacts with various drugs metabolized by the cytochrome P-450 system. It can increase blood levels and toxicity when co-administered with inhibitors of CYP2D6, CYP1A2, and CYP2C19. It can also interact with antiarrhythmics, calcium channel blockers, and NSAIDs[3].

FAQs

How should I take the tablet?

Take propranolol orally with or without food. Extended-release capsules should not be crushed or chewed[1][3].

What should I avoid while taking?

Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of propranolol. Also, avoid operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or fatigue[1][3].

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one[1][3].

Reference

[1] https://www.theindependentpharmacy.co.uk/anxiety/guides/propranolol-guide

[2] https://www.drugs.com/ingredient/propranolol.html

[3] https://www.drugs.com/pro/propranolol.html

[4] https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/medicines-information/propranolol/

[5] https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00571

[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6327687/

[7] https://www.rxlist.com/propranolol/generic-drug.htm