Propranolol

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About propranolol Key facts Who can and cannot take propranolol How and when to take propranolol Side effects How to cope with side effects of propranolol Pregnancy and breastfeeding Cautions with other medicines Common questions about propranolol Propranolol belongs to a group of medicines called beta blockers. It's used to treat heart problems, help with some of the symptoms of anxiety and prevent migraines. If you have a heart problem, you can take propranolol to: treat high blood pressure treat conditions that cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), like atrial fibrillation help prevent future heart disease, heart attacks and strokes help prevent chest pain caused by angina Propranolol can help reduce your symptoms if you have too much thyroid hormone in your body (thyrotoxicosis). You'll usually take it together with medicines to treat an overactive thyroid. This medicine is only available on prescription. It comes as tablets, slow release capsules, or as a liquid that you swallow. Propranolol slows down your heart rate and makes it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body. It's usually prescribed for high blood pressure and other heart problems, but it can also help with the physical symptoms of anxiety, like sweating and shaking. Your very first dose of propranolol may make you feel dizzy, so take it at bedtime. After that, if you do not feel dizzy, you can take it in the morning. The main side effects of propranolol are feeling dizzy or tired, cold hands or feet, difficulties sleeping and nightmares. These side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Most adults and children aged 12 and over can take propranolol. But it is not officially approved for treating high blood pressure in children under 12 years old. Propranolol is not suitable for everyone. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor before starting to take propranolol if you: have ever had an allergic reaction to propranolol or any other medicine have low blood pressure or a