Generic Name: propranolol

What is the most important information I should know about propranolol?

Do not stop taking propranolol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

If you need to have any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using propranolol. Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using propranolol.

Propranolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which could increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking propranolol.

Propranolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.

Hypertension often has no symptoms, so you may not even feel that you have high blood pressure. Continue using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

What is propranolol?

Propranolol is in a group of drugs called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Propranolol is used to treat tremors, angina (chest pain), hypertension (high blood pressure), heart rhythm disorders, and other heart or circulatory conditions. It is also used to treat or prevent heart attack, and to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine headaches.

Propranolol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking propranolol?

Before taking propranolol, tell your doctor if you have:

• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema;

• diabetes;

• low blood pressure;

• a heart problem such as heart block, sick sinus syndrome, slow heart rate, or congestive heart failure;

• depression;

• liver or kidney disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• myasthenia gravis;

• pheochromocytoma; or

• problems with circulation (such as Raynaud's syndrome).

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use propranolol, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Propranolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.