Hypertension >> Propranolol

Propranolol

Active Ingredients:

• Propranolol

How does Propranolol work?

Propranolol belongs to a group of medications called beta-blockers. Propranolol exerts antianginal, antihypertensive and anti-arrhythmic action. It works by unselectively blocking -adrenoreceptors(75% 1- adrenoreceptors 25% 2adrenoreceptors), decrease the stimulating effects of catecholamines and production of cyclic AMP and ATP. In results the medication lowers the amount of calcium ions inside the cells. Propranolol exerts negative chrono-, dromo-, batro- and inotropic action (decreases heart rate, inhibits and excitability and conductibility, decreases cardiac contractility).

When Propranolol is prescribed?

• Primary hypertension
• Stable and unstable angina
• Sinus tachycardia
• Supraventricular tachycardia
• Tachyarrhythmia
• Prophylaxis of heart attacks
• Supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmia
• Migraine
• Symptomatic therapy of thyrotoxicosis and thyroid crisis

Before taking Propranolol

You should not take Propranolol if any of these conditions apply to you:

• Hypersensitivity to any of the medication ingredients
• Congestive heart failure
• Cardiogenic shock
• Atrioventricular heart block of II-III stage
• Sick sinus syndrome
• Sinus bradycardia
• Prinzmetal's angina
• Cardiomegaly
• Low blood pressure
• Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease
• Bronchial asthma
• Tendency to bronchospastic reactions
• Pheochromocytoma
• Spastic colitis
• Concomitant application with MAO inhibitors, antipsychotics, anxiolytics

Propranolol should be used with caution in the following conditions:

• AV-block 1 degree
• Liver failure
• Kidney failure
• Chronic heart failure
• Psoriasis
• Allergic reactions
• Children
• Elderly patients
• Patients under 18 years of age

Application during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Propranolol is not intended to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Make sure to consult your health care provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How Propranolol is taken?

You should take Propranolol exactly as indicated by your physician. Do not exceed recommended dosages. Follow the directions of your prescription. The medication comes in the form of tablets which are taken orally. Tablets are taken with sufficient amount of water swallowing whole without chewing.

You can take tablets with or without food. It is recommended to take tablets at the same time each day. This will help to maintain the constant level of the medication in your blood.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

You should take the medication as soon as possible. If its already time to your next dose, you should skip the missed dose. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

What should I do if I overdose?

Seek immediate medical attention if you have taken Altace dosage higher than recommended. The symptoms of overdose include: bradycardia, dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, cyanosis of the extremities, seizures

Which Propranolol side effect are possible while the treatment?

As with any drug, there are some side effects while may occur while taking Propranolol. However, not everyone who takes Propranolol will experience side effects. In fact, most patients taking Propranolol tolerate it well. During clinical trials there were reported the following Propranolol side effects:

• Edema
• Weight gain
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure
• Confusion
• Worsening of asthma
• Worsening of heart failure
• Arrhythmia
• Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, hives, utricaria.

This is not a complete list of Propranolol side effects. When side effects do occur make sure to inform your health care provider.

Which other medicines can interact with Propranolol?

• Alpha blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Certain antibiotics: ampicillin
• Anti-arrhythmic remedies
• Cardiac glycosides (digoxin)
• NSAID's
• Other hypertensive remedies (clonidine, reserpine)
• Beta blockers

Make sure to inform your health care provide about prescription and over-the-counter medication, herbal supplements, and other medical preparations you are currently taking. Do not begin a new medication without letting your doctor know.

How Propranolol should be stored?

Propranolol tablets should be stored at room temperature (18-25°C). Protect from light. Do not store in the bathroom.

Additional information

You should not share this medicine with others. Do not take Propranolol on your own initiative without your doctors approval. Keep the drug as well as any other disposable material out of the reach of children.