Propranol 40

Presentation: Each tablet contains Propranolol Hydrochloride 40 mg. Available in strips.

Indications: Propranol is indicated for the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, long-term management after myocardial infarction, control of cardiac arrhythmias, prophylaxis of migraine, management of essential tremor, and relief of situational and generalized anxiety symptoms. It is also used in the management of thyrotoxicosis and peri-operative management of phaeochromocytoma (with an alpha-blocker).

Dosage and Administration: The dosage is individualized and determined by the physician based on the condition being treated and the patient's response.

• Hypertension: Initial dose is usually 80 mg twice daily, may be increased. Usual range is 160-320 mg daily.
• Angina, Migraine, and Essential Tremor: Initial dose is 40 mg two or three times daily, may be increased. Usual effective range is 80-240 mg daily.
• Anxiety: 40 mg daily for short-term relief, or 40 mg twice daily for longer-term therapy, may increase to 40 mg three times daily.
• Arrhythmias, Anxiety Tachycardia, Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy, and Thyrotoxicosis: Usual range is 10-40 mg three or four times daily.
• Post Myocardial Infarction: Initiate between days 5 and 21 with 40 mg four times daily for 2-3 days, then may switch to 80 mg twice daily.

Administer orally, usually with or after food. Do not stop treatment abruptly, especially in patients with ischaemic heart disease. Dosage should be withdrawn gradually over 7-14 days.

Side Effects: Common side effects include cold fingers and toes, slow heartbeat, disturbed sleep/nightmares, and fatigue. Less common side effects may include worsening of breathing difficulties (in asthmatics), breathlessness and/or swollen ankles (in heart failure), heart block, dizziness (especially on standing), worsening of blood circulation, hair loss, mood changes, confusion, memory loss, psychosis or hallucinations, tingling of the hands, visual disturbances, and dry eyes.

Precautions: Exercise caution in patients with asthma or COPD, diabetes (may mask hypoglycemia symptoms), uncontrolled heart failure, heart block, Raynaud's phenomenon, and peripheral arterial disease. Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems. May interact with other cardiovascular medications (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem), antiarrhythmics, certain antidepressants, and other drugs. Inform the physician if pregnant or breastfeeding. May cause dizziness or fatigue; caution when driving or operating machinery.

Storage: Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.