Product Information

Propranolol tablets:

What is Propranolol?

Propranolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart and help it to beat more regularly. Propranolol (Inderal) is used to treat high blood pressure, to control irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and to relieve chest pain caused by angina. It may also be helpful after a heart attack. Propranolol is also used to prevent migraine headaches, relieve uncontrollable shaking (tremors), and help certain problems related to the thyroid gland and adrenal gland.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take Propranolol?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes
• circulation problems or blood vessel disease
• liver disease
• history of heart attack or heart disease, vasospastic angina
• kidney disease
• thyroid disease
• lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
• breast-feeding
• slow heart rate
• pheochromocytoma
• an unusual or allergic reaction to propranolol, other beta-blockers, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use Propranolol (Inderal)?

Take Inderal by mouth with a glass of water. Take your doses at regular intervals. Don't take your medication more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of Propranolol in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medication contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: Propranolol (Inderal) is only for you. Don't share this medication with others!

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with Inderal?

Don't take Propranolol with any of the following:

• feverfew
• sotalol
• phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine

This medications may also interact with the following:

• diazepam
• aluminum hydroxide gel
• isoniazid
• barbiturates like phenobarbital
• cimetidine
• ciprofloxacin
• antipyrine
• fluconazole
• haloperidol
• medications for HIV
• medications for mental depression
• medications to control heart rhythm
• medications for high blood pressure
• medications for cholesterol like cholestyramine or colestipol
• NSAIDs, medications for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
• medications for migraine headache like almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan
• thyroid medications
• phenytoin
• theophylline
• zileuton

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all medications, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medication.

What should I watch for while using Propranolol?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Check your blood pressure and pulse rate regularly. Ask your health care professional what your blood pressure and pulse rate should be, and when you should contact them.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Propranolol can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medications.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking Propranolol without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

What side effects may I notice from Propranolol (Inderal)?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• slow heart rate
• hallucinations
• changes in blood sugar
• cold hands or feet
• difficulty sleeping, nightmares
• dry peeling skin
• vomiting
• muscle cramps or weakness
• breathing problems
• swelling of the legs and ankles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea
• change in sex drive or performance
• nausea
• weak or tired
• hair loss
• dry sore eyes

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

Where should I keep my Propranolol tablets?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.