Propranolol is a beta blocker with an unusually wide range of uses — migraine prevention, physical symptoms of anxiety, essential tremor and overactive thyroid, as well as heart conditions. It blocks adrenaline, which is why it takes the edge off a racing heart and shaking hands.
Migraine prevention, the physical symptoms of anxiety such as palpitations and tremor, essential tremor, angina, high blood pressure, some heart rhythm problems, and symptom control in overactive thyroid.
For anxiety it treats the physical symptoms rather than the anxiety itself. It works well alongside talking therapy, not instead of it.
Standard tablets are usually taken two to four times a day; modified-release capsules once daily and swallowed whole.
For migraine prevention it must be taken regularly, and it can take several weeks to show benefit.
Propranolol is not suitable for people with asthma — it can cause serious bronchospasm. Tell your prescriber if you have asthma or any wheezing condition. Use is also cautious in COPD, certain heart conditions, and in diabetes, where it can mask hypo warning signs.
Common side effects: tiredness, cold hands and feet, dizziness, slow heart rate, difficulty sleeping and vivid dreams.
Contact your doctor for wheezing or breathlessness, a very slow pulse, fainting, or swollen ankles.
Alcohol adds to the dizziness. Get up slowly from sitting or lying.
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