Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: PROPRANOLOL S.R. - ORAL (pro-PRAN-oh-lol)

BRAND NAME(S): Betachron, Inderal LA

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: If you have chest pain (angina) or heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, high blood pressure), do not stop using this drug without first consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this drug, you must gradually decrease your dose according to your doctor's instructions. When gradually stopping this medication, it is recommended that you temporarily limit physical activity to decrease strain on the heart. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop: worsening chest pain, tightness or pressure in the chest, chest pain spreading to the jaw/neck/arm, sweating, trouble breathing or fast/irregular heartbeat.

USES: This medication is a beta-blocker used to treat chest pain (angina), high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, migraine headaches, tremors, and other conditions as determined by your doctor. It is also used after an acute heart attack to improve survival. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. This drug works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body (such as epinephrine) that affect the heart and blood vessels. This results in a lowering of heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily; or as directed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush or chew the capsules. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. This drug is not effective if you use it only when chest pain or a migraine headache occurs. It is very important to take this medication regularly as prescribed to help prevent these conditions. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It may take 1 or 2 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Refer to the Warning section.