Propranolol is indicated in:

• Essential hypertension
• Angina pectoris
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Thyrotoxicosis
• Anxiety
• Prophylaxis of migraine, etc.

Propranolol Hydrochloride is a beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent widely used in hypertension and angina pectoris. It antagonizes catecholamines at beta-adrenergic receptors, thereby reducing heart rate and force of contraction and decreasing myocardial oxygen demand.

Propranolol is almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but a portion undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver. Peak plasma concentration occurs within 1 to 1.5 hours after oral administration. The plasma half-life is approximately 3 to 6 hours. Its metabolites are excreted through urine.

Adult (above 18 years):

• Hypertension: Initially 80 mg twice daily, may be increased at weekly intervals and then maintenance dose of 160-320 mg daily is recommended.
• Angina pectoris: Initially 40 mg 2-3 times daily and then maintenance dose of 120-240 mg daily is given.
• Thyrotoxicosis: 10-40 mg, 3-4 times daily is given.
• Anxiety: 40 mg once daily, may be increased to three times daily.
• Prophylaxis of migraine: Initially 40 mg 2-3 times daily; then maintenance dose of 80-160 mg daily is recommended.

Child (From day 1 to 18 years): Hypertension:

• Neonate: 0.25-0.5 mg/kg 3 times daily, adjusted according to response.
• Child 1 month–12 years: 0.25-1 mg/kg 3 times daily, maximum dose 5 mg/kg daily in divided dose.
• Child 12–18 years: initially 80 mg twice daily, maintain 160-320 mg daily.

Patients receiving verapamil, salbutamol, Levosalbutamol, ergot alkaloids, lidocaine, and phenobarbital should be closely monitored during therapy.

Bronchospasm, cardiogenic shock, second or third degree heart block, diabetes mellitus, etc.

Cold extremities, lassitude, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, paresthesia, etc.

Pregnancy Category C. It should not be used in pregnant women unless clearly necessary. Propranolol is excreted in human milk; therefore, caution should be taken when administered to nursing mothers.

It should be used with caution in hepatic and renal impairment, pregnancy, and lactating mothers.

Beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs / Beta-blockers

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.