Common use
Inderal acts blocking beta-adrenergic substances such as adrenaline (epinephrine), a key agent in the "sympathetic" portion of the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system which is responsible for work of the heart. The medication is used to treat tremors, chest pain, hypertension, heart rhythm disorders, ischemic heart disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, myocardiodystrophy and other conditions.
Dosage and direction
Take the orally disregarding time of your meal. Take Inderal with a full glass of water at the same time every day. Do not chew, crush, break, or open an Inderal capsule. Swallow the tab whole. Do not stop to take the medication suddenly as it may cause problems to your heart.
Precautions
Do not use this drug if you suffer from asthma or certain heart conditions, especially second or third-degree heart block, liver or kidney failure. Avoid drinking alcohol. Do not stop taking the medication even if you feel better as hypertension may have no symptoms.
Contraindications
Sinus bradycardia, incomplete or complete atrioventricular block (problems with conduction of excitation in the excitation-conduction system of the heart), severe right and left ventricular failure, bronchial asthma and a tendency to bronchospasm, pregnancy, disorders of peripheral arterial blood flow. In patients with spastic colitis (inflammation of the colon, characterized by its contraction) administration of Inderal is not recommended.
Possible side effect
Nausea, vomit, diarrhoea, bradycardia (a slow heartbeat), dizziness allergy itchy skin, bronchospasm (a contraction of bronchus). Depression is possible.
Drug interaction
Alcohol and aluminium reduce the absorption of propranolol. Inderal increases the blood levels of theophylline and lidocaine. Phenytoin, phenobarbital, and rifampin reduce the level of Inderal in blood. Cimetidine and chlorpromazine on the contrary increase the blood levels of Inderal.
Missed dose
If you missed a dose of short-acting Inderal take the missed dose as soon as you remember but not if only about four hours remained till next dose. If so skip the missed dose and return to your schedule. If extended release Inderal dose is missed then take the missed dose the soonest but not if less than eight hours remained till next dose. Never take an extra dose to compensate the missed one.
Overdose
In case of severe symptoms such as heartbeats, dizziness, weakness, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention.
Storage
Keep at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight.