Brand
name : Inderal
Pronounced: IN-der-al
Generic name: Propranolol hydrochloride
Other brand name: Inderal LA
Why is Inderal prescribed?
Inderal, a type of medication known as a beta blocker, is used in
the treatment of high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain,
usually caused by lack of oxygen to the heart due to clogged arteries),
changes in heart rhythm, prevention of migraine headache, hereditary
tremors, hypertrophic subaortic stenosis (a condition related to exertional
angina), and tumors of the adrenal gland. It is also used to reduce
the risk of death from recurring heart attack.
When used for the treatment of high blood pressure, it is effective
alone or combined with other high blood pressure medications, particularly
thiazide-type diuretics. Beta blockers decrease the force and rate
of heart contractions, reducing the heart's demand for oxygen and lowering
blood pressure.
Most important fact about Inderal
If you have high blood pressure, you must take Inderal regularly for
it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may
be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Inderal; and you
must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Inderal does
not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Inderal?
Inderal works best when taken before meals. Take it exactly as prescribed,
even if your symptoms have disappeared.
Try not to miss any doses. If Inderal is not taken regularly, your
condition may worsen.
If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 8 hours of your next
scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed, light-resistant container.
Protect from freezing or excessive heat.
Inderal side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Inderal.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal cramps, colitis, congestive heart failure, constipation, decreased
sexual ability, depression, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, disorientation,
dry eyes, fever with sore throat, hair loss, hallucinations, headache, light-headedness,
low blood pressure, lupus erythematosus (a disease of the connective tissue),
nausea, rash, reddish or purplish spots on the skin, short-term memory loss,
slow heartbeat, tingling, prickling in hands, tiredness, trouble sleeping,
upset stomach, visual changes, vivid dreams, vomiting, weakness, worsening
of certain heartbeat irregularities
Why should Inderal not be prescribed?
If you have inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system (cardiogenic
shock), certain types of irregular heartbeat, a slow heartbeat, bronchial
asthma, or severe congestive heart failure, you should not take Inderal.
Special warnings about Inderal
If you have a history of congestive heart failure, your doctor will
prescribe Inderal cautiously.
Inderal should not be stopped suddenly. This can cause increased chest
pain and heart attack. Dosage should be gradually reduced.
If you suffer from asthma or other bronchial conditions, coronary
artery disease, or kidney or liver disease, Inderal should be used
with caution.
Ask your doctor if you should check your pulse while taking Inderal.
This medication can cause your heartbeat to become too slow.
This medication may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar or alter
blood sugar levels. In addition, diabetics who experience a severe
drop in blood sugar after taking insulin may suffer a spike in blood
pressure if they are also taking Inderal.
Notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking Inderal if you have
a medical emergency, and before you have surgery or dental treatment.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Inderal
If Inderal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Inderal with the following:
Alcohol
Aluminum hydroxide gel (Amphojel)
Antipyrine (Auralgan)
Calcium-blocking blood pressure drugs such as Cardizem, Procardia,
and Calan
Certain high blood pressure medications such as Diupres and Ser-Ap-Es
Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Epinephrine (EpiPen)
Haloperidol (Haldol)
Insulin
Lidocaine (Xylocaine)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Motrin and Naprosyn
Oral diabetes drugs such as Micronase
Phenobarbitone
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Rifampin (Rifadin)
Theophylline (Theo-Dur and others)
Thyroid medications such as Synthroid
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Inderal during pregnancy have not been adequately studied.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor
immediately. Inderal appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing
infant. If Inderal is essential to your health, your doctor may advise
you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Inderal
is finished.
Recommended dosage for Inderal
ADULTS
Overdosage
No specific information on Inderal overdosage is available; however,
overdose symptoms with other beta blockers include:
Extremely slow heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure,
severe congestive heart failure, seizures wheezing
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
