Propranolol - is an organic chemical compound with multifunctional action. This preparation was first introduced to the market in 1965 in Switzerland by Astrazeneca. Propranolol is classified as a non-selective β-blocker affecting the cardiovascular system. It is used alone or together with other medications for high blood pressure. It is available only on prescription under two trade names: Propranolol Accord and Propranolol WZF. It is available in the form of tablets and an injectable solution.
Propranolol - composition
1 Propranolol Accord film-coated tablet contains:10 mg or 40 mg of propranolol hydrochloride (Propranololi hydrochloridum);excipients:corn starch, lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate;shell:hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, mono and diacetylated monoglycerides, titanium dioxide ( E 171).
1 Propranolol WZF tablet contains10 mg or 40 mg of propranolol hydrochloride;excipients:lactose monohydrate, sucrose, potato starch, talc, magnesium stearate, povidone K-25.
1 ampoule of Propranolol WZF Injection Solution contains1 mg of propranolol hydrochloride;excipients:citric acid anhydrous (for pH adjustment), water for injection.
Propranolol - action
Propranolol is a nonselective drug that blocks beta-adrenergic receptors without adversely affecting the activity of the autonomic nervous system. Blocks the action of catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline).
Competing with the beta-adrenergic receptor for space. It has a quinidine-like membrane and anesthetic effect. Affectsheart ratebyreducing its rateor byreducing atrioventricular conduction ,reduces contractility of the ventricular muscle . It contributes little tostabilization of cell membranes .
Propranolol - application
Propranolol is used primarily in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and in the treatment of angina (chest pain).
In addition, preparations containing propranolol are used:
- to protect the heart after myocardial infarction,
- in the treatment of pheochromocytoma,
- to treat hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle).
The drug in the form of a solution for injectionis recommended for acute conditions requiring immediate treatment, such as arrhythmias and thyroid crisis.
Propranolol is introduced into treatment in patients prone to migraines, in the reduction of some symptoms of neuroses, anxiety attacks and during the occurrence ofupper gastrointestinal bleedingin patients with esophageal varices .
Propranolol - indications
It is recommended to use the drug in diseases of the cardiovascular system and in acute anxiety attacks, in the case of hyperthyroidism disorders or in order to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine headaches.
Propranolol - contraindications
Do not use the drug if you are allergic to propranolol or any of its ingredients.It is not recommended for patients with asthma, very slow heartbeat, very low blood pressure or if you have serious heart disease (sick sinus syndrome, second or third degree heart block).
Propranolol - dosage
Always use the drug exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Propranolol - precautions
The use of the drug should not be stopped abruptly, the drug should be discontinued gradually, at least after fourteen days.
If the patient is prior to surgery, it may be necessary to temporarily discontinue the drug. Before taking the drug, it is important to inform the doctor about other diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver (the drug may increase the risk of developing hepatic encephalopathy) or about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (the drug may worsen the symptoms).
In addition, special precautions are recommended in patients with compensated heart failure but with low functional reserve or first degree heart block. The active substance should be used with caution in patients prone to severe allergic reactions.
Propranolol - side effects
Propranolol may cause allergic reactions such as:
- hives,
- difficulty breathing,
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue orthroat.
Side effects include :
- bradycardia, i.e. a slow or uneven heartbeat,
- feeling lightheaded,
- wheezing or breathing problems,
- sleep disorders,
- shortness of breath (even with slight 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),
- feeling cold in the hands and feet (cold extremities),
- depression,
- confusion,
- hallucinations,
- liver problems,
- low blood sugar (headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, confusion, irritability, dizziness),
- rapid heartbeat or feeling nervous.
Propranolol - interactions with other drugs and diseases
In order to avoid undesirable ailments, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications that are currently or recently used, as well as about medications that the patient is going to use.
Drugs that should not be combined with propranolol include:
- drugs that weaken the response to catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline),
- anticoagulants (warfarin, coumadin, jantoven),
- antidepressants (amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, imipramine and others),
- drugs used to treat high blood pressure or prostate disorders (doxazosin, prazosin, Terazosin),
- drugs for heart or blood pressure (amiodarone, diltiazem, propafenone, quinidine, verapamil and others),
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen) and others.
Do not use the drug in patients with diseases such as:
- asthma,
- 2nd or 3rd degree heart block,
- Prinzmetal's angina,
- hypotension,
- metabolic acidosis,
- uncontrolled heart failure.
In addition, the drug must not be used in patients prone to hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose).
Propranolol and pregnancy and breastfeeding
Before taking the drug, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should not be used during pregnancy, unless the doctor decides that the benefits of treating the mother outweigh the risks to the fetus. Propranolol is not teratogenic but may cause, inter alia, decrease in blood flow through the placenta.
Taking propranolol is not recommendedduring breastfeeding, as it has the ability to pass into breast milk.
Propranolol - drug storage
The drug should be stored in a suitable place that is invisible and inaccessible to children. It is recommended to store atat 15 ° C - 25 ° Cin its original packaging. The drug should not be used after the expiry date stated on the package. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.