Description
Indications
Propranolol is prescribed for the management of various medical conditions, including hypertension, arrhythmias, pheochromocytoma, specific forms of tremor, and hypertrophic subaortic stenosis. Additionally, it is utilized for angina prophylaxis, alleviation of migraine headaches, and enhancement of post-heart attack survival. Classified as a beta blocker, Propranolol exerts its pharmacological effects by inducing vasodilation, reducing heart rate, and subsequently ameliorating blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally once daily. Swallow the capsules whole without crushing or chewing them.
The prescribed dosage is determined based on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.
To derive the maximum benefit from this medication, use it regularly and take it at the same time every day. Continue taking the medication even if you feel well.
This drug is intended to prevent chest pain or migraines and should not be used to treat acute chest pain or migraines when they occur. For sudden attacks, your doctor may recommend alternative medications such as nitroglycerin tablets for chest pain or sumatriptan for migraines. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific details.
It may take 1 to 2 weeks before experiencing the full therapeutic effects of this drug.
If you are also taking certain cholesterol-lowering medications (such as cholestyramine or colestipol), ensure that you take propranolol at least 1 hour before or at least 4 hours after these medications.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens, such as if your routine blood pressure readings increase or if chest pain or migraines occur more frequently.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- tiredness
- diarrhea
- constipation
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- rash
- blistering or peeling skin
- hives
- itching
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, or lips
- feeling faint
- weight gain
- irregular heartbeat
Caution
Before initiating propranolol treatment, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any allergies you have, especially if you have had a serious reaction to other beta blockers like metoprolol, or if you have any other known allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of respiratory issues, heart failure, specific types of heart rhythm problems, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, liver disease, blood circulation problems, a specific type of tumor called pheochromocytoma, mental/mood disorders, certain muscle/nerve diseases (myasthenia gravis), or a history of severe allergic reactions.
This drug has the potential to cause dizziness. Concurrent use of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate dizziness. Until you are sure of your alertness, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require vigilance.
This product may mask the usual symptoms of a fast or pounding heartbeat that you would normally experience when your blood sugar level drops too low (hypoglycemia). The risk of this effect is higher in individuals with diabetes or those experiencing vomiting, fasting, or irregular eating patterns. Other hypoglycemia symptoms, such as dizziness and sweating, are not affected by this medication.
For individuals with diabetes, this product may make it more challenging to control blood sugar levels. Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet.
In pediatric patients, there may be an increased risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) while using this medication, especially if they are experiencing vomiting or irregular eating patterns. To prevent low blood sugar, ensure that children eat regularly. If your child is unable to eat regularly, is vomiting, or exhibits symptoms of low blood sugar (such as sweating or shaking), promptly notify the doctor.
During pregnancy, use this medication only when it is clearly necessary. Infants exposed to this medication during pregnancy may experience low birth weight, low blood sugar, or slow breathing/heartbeat. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medication.
Form and Strength
Inderal LA is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
propranolol tablet:
- 40mg
- 80mg
- 120mg
- 160mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Inderal LA to work?
The effects are most noticeable between 1 and 4 hours after taking a dose.
Does Inderal LA cause weight gain?
Weight gain was not reported as a side effect in studies of people taking Inderal LA.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-quickly-does-propranolol-work-for-anxiety#:~:text=The%20effects%20are%20most%20noticeable,the%20heart%27s%20receptors%20for%20epinephrine
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/inderal-side-effects#fa-qs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/inderal-la
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-494/inderal-la-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/inderal-la.html
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682607.html