Propranolol

Propranolol is a treatment for anxiety disorders. It belongs to the ‘beta-blocker’ class of medicines. These work by blocking the receptors to the hormone epinephrine, which is more commonly referred to as adrenaline. In turn, this reduces symptoms of anxiety, such as a rapid heart rate, sweating, flushing.

At HealthExpress we offer the 40mg dosage. They can either be taken daily or before stressful events (with a maximum of 3 tablets a day). Your doctor will advise you what is best for your situation.

Propranolol is available in five dosages; 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 80mg and 160mg tablets. The dosages and how to take Propranolol may differ between conditions so ensure you have familiarized yourself with the instructions detailed in the patient leaflet. The most common dosages for anxiety are 10mg, 20mg and 40mg. HealthExpress currently only offer the 40mg dosage.

For 40mg tablets:

• 40mg of Propranolol should be taken as-needed, approximately one hour before you anticipate symptoms of anxiety
• you should not exceed three doses per day
• tablets can also be taken on a daily basis. Your doctor will issue the correct quantity and dosage for you
• if prescribed for daily use, take doses at the same time daily
• take each tablet with water
• taking Propranolol before a meal can help reduce side effects

All packets of Propranolol come with the complete patient leaflet should you have any concerns of how to take it for anxiety. If you are unsure, contact your doctor before you begin treatment.

If you are taking Propranolol on a daily basis and forget a dose, take the pill as soon as you remember (unless it is close to your next dose). If this is the case, miss the tablet and continue as normal. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dosage.

If you take more than one tablet in a short space of time, contact a medical professional as soon as you can. Propranolol causes your heart rate to slow and digesting more tablets than advised can have serious complications.

If you have taken too many pills at once or in a short period, you may experience the following symptoms that require immediate attention:

• nausea
• confusion
• dizziness
• fainting
• breathlessness
• hallucinations
• spasms

As with all medications, some individuals may experience side effects when taking Propranolol. However, the vast majority of people will be able to use it without any unwelcome symptoms.

Common side effects of Propranolol include:

• tiredness
• cold extremities
• insomnia

However, these side effects should disappear once you have become accustomed to the medication.

Other common side effects include:

• odd dreams/nightmares
• a slow or irregular heartbeat
• Raynaud's syndrome

If any side effects cause you distress or are long-lasting, you should stop taking the treatment and inform your doctor.

If you experience a slowed heart rate or low blood pressure, or an allergic reaction to Propranolol, you must stop taking the tablets immediately and contact a medical professional. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, difficulty breathing and swelling around the face and neck.

When completing your online consultation, please be sure to inform our doctors of all medications you are taking and have taken in the past. You should also detail any conditions you have suffered from or are suffering from. This will allow them to safely prescribe, or offer alternatives if Propranolol is not right for you.

Please be advised that if you suffer from the following, this medication may not be prescribed to you:

• allergies to any of the ingredients
• certain heart conditions
• low blood pressure
• slow heartbeat/heart rate
• poor blood circulation
• diabetes (diabetes mellitus)
• increased blood acidity
• you are fasting
• you are lactose intolerant
• you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or thoughts about harming yourself

If you find that Propranolol causes dizziness, fatigue and other related symptoms, you should avoid driving and using heavy machinery.

You should avoid consuming alcohol, especially excessive drinking. There should also be extra care taken if you smoke.

Expectant mothers and breastfeeding mothers should not take Propranolol. Please contact your doctor to discuss alternatives.

You should seek immediate help if you experience any suicidal thoughts or thoughts about harming yourself.