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Inderal (Propranolol) belongs to a group of medicines called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart and help it to beat more regularly. Propranolol controls, but does not cure, high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure may not make you feel sick, but it can lead to serious heart problems. Propranolol has a number of other uses; for some of these the sustained-release capsules are not suitable. Propranolol steadies irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and relieves chest pain (angina), and it may be helpful after a heart attack. Propranolol can help prevent migraine headaches; relieve serious tremors (uncontrollable shaking); and help certain problems related to the thyroid gland and adrenal gland.
What should I tell my doctor before I take Inderal?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
asthma, bronchitis or bronchospasm
circulation problems, or blood vessel disease (such as Raynaud's disease)
depression
diabetes
emphysema, or other lung disease
history of heart attack or heart disease, vasospastic angina
liver disease
low blood pressure
muscle weakness or disease
pheochromocytoma
psoriasis
thyroid disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to propranolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I take Inderal?
Take propranolol tablets or extended-release capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water; do not crush or chew the capsules. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
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 (less than 4 hours for regular tablets, or less than 8 hours for extended-release capsules), take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with propranolol?
antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)
atropine
barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures (convulsions)
cimetidine
cocaine
ergotamine
hawthorn
levodopa
medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
medicines for diabetes
medicines for high blood pressure
medicines for mental depression
medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances
medicines to control heart rhythm
monoamine oxidase inhibitors (Azilect®, Eldepryl®, Emsam®, Marplan®, Nardil®, Parnate®, Zelapar.)
rifampin
theophylline
tubocurarine
water pills
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your doctor if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking propranolol?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
changes in blood sugar
cold hands or feet
difficulty breathing, wheezing
difficulty sleeping, nightmares
dizziness or fainting spells
hallucinations (seeing and hearing things that are not really there)
muscle cramps or weakness
skin rash, itching, dry peeling skin
slow heart rate (less than 50 beats per minute)
swelling of the legs and ankles
vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
dark coloration of skin
diarrhea
dry sore eyes
hair loss
nausea
sexual difficulties (impotence or decreased sexual urges)
weakness or tiredness
What should I watch for while taking propranolol?
Check your heart rate and blood pressure regularly while you are taking propranolol. Ask your doctor what your heart rate and blood pressure should be, and when you should contact him or her.
Do not stop taking Inderal suddenly. This could lead to serious heart-related effects.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires mental alertness until you know how propranolol affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly. Alcohol can make you more drowsy, and increase flushing and rapid heartbeats. Therefore, it is best to avoid alcoholic drinks.
Propranolol can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking propranolol.
Where can I keep Inderal?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.Store at room temperature approximately 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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