What is it used for?

Propranolol is one of a class of medications called beta blockers it had formerly been very heavily prescribed for high blood pressure. However, by blocking the adrenaline receptor site in the muscle, Propranolol also blocks the so-called “fight-or-flight” response, and can thereby help maintain calmness in tense and nervous social situations. Recommended for performance anxiety situations, stage fright, etc. Use of beta-blockers has been banned in professional snooker tournaments.

How is it given?

Dosage: 10mg-20mg with some food two hours before the time needed. Frequently a dose as low as 5mg can take the nervous edge away.
Precautions : Propranolol lowers the blood pressure, and therefore should not be used by people with very low blood pressure.People on any other medications or with arterial problems, or bronchial problems, asthma, etc. should check with their physician before usage. Propranolol should be taken with food to avoid nausea.

Important Information!
You should not use this medicine if you have asthma, very slow heart beats, or a serious heart condition such as “sick sinus syndrome” or “AV block” (unless you have a pacemaker).

What are the common side effects?

Call your doctor at once if you have:

slow or uneven heartbeats;

a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

wheezing or trouble breathing;

shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain;

sudden weakness, vision problems, or loss of coordination (especially in a child with hemangioma that affects the face or head);

cold feeling in your hands and feet;

depression, confusion, hallucinations;

liver problems – nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

low blood sugar – headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, confusion, irritability, dizziness, fast heart rate, or feeling jittery;

low blood sugar in a baby – pale skin, blue or purple skin, sweating, fussiness, crying, not wanting to eat, feeling cold, drowsiness, weak or shallow breathing (breathing may stop for short periods), seizure (convulsions), or loss of consciousness; or

severe skin reaction – fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Common propranolol side effects may include:

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach cramps;

decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm;

sleep problems (insomnia); or

tired feeling.