Inderal (Propranolol)

Do’s

• Take this medication 2-4 times daily as directed by your healthcare provider, before meals (and at bedtime if taking 4 times daily).  
• Measure the liquid accurately with a medication-measuring spoon. 
• Take it regularly at the same time each day, even if you feel well. It prevents chest pain and migraines, not treating them when they occur.  
• Use other medications for sudden attacks as directed by your healthcare provider.  
• Take it at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after certain cholesterol medications. For high blood pressure, full benefit may take 1-2 weeks.   
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition worsens. 

Don’ts

• Do not use a household spoon to measure the liquid. 

Common side effects of Inderal may include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Depression
• Dreaming
• Memory loss
• Fever
• Impotence
• Lightheadedness
• Slow heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Cold extremities
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Hoarse voice

Serious side effects of Inderal are rare

• Aggravation of breathing difficulties in patients with asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema
• Dangerously slow heart rates and even shock in patients with existing slow heart rates and heart blocks
• Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness or lightheadedness
• Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors
• Serious allergic reaction

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Inderal,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to propranolol or other beta-blockers.

Disclose your medical history, especially:

• Breathing problems (asthma, etc.)
• Heart conditions (failure, rhythm issues)
• Thyroid issues (overactive)
• Kidney or liver disease
• Blood circulation problems
• Certain tumors
• Mental health conditions (depression)
• Muscle/nerve disorders

Inderal can cause dizziness, so avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until the effects wear off. Limit alcohol and marijuana use, which can worsen dizziness.

These may contain alcohol, so be cautious if you have alcohol dependence or liver disease.

Inform your healthcare provider/dentist about all medications you take before surgery.

Inderal may mask low blood sugar symptoms (sweating, dizziness), so monitor blood sugar levels closely and report high blood sugar signs (increased thirst/urination) to your healthcare provider.

They are at higher risk for low blood sugar with Inderal, so ensure regular meals and inform the healthcare provider of any vomiting or low blood sugar symptoms.

Inderal should only be used in pregnancy when necessary and consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.