Propranolol
Propranolol is a non-cardioselective beta-blocker used in the UK for high blood pressure, angina, migraine prevention, essential tremor, and some anxiety physical symptoms when prescribed. It is also used in thyroid overactivity as part of specialist plans.
This medicine is part of the Blood pressure, cholesterol & related category.
Generic name: propranolol
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Propranolol is a non-cardioselective beta-blocker used in the UK for high blood pressure, angina, migraine prevention, essential tremor, and some anxiety physical symptoms when prescribed.
How long does it take to work?
Blood pressure can fall over days to weeks after starting or changing dose; attend follow-up checks your GP arranges.
What are common side effects?
Tiredness, cold extremities, sleep disturbance, and slow pulse are possible.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Propranolol with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Propranolol is used for
Propranolol is a non-cardioselective beta-blocker used in the UK for high blood pressure, angina, migraine prevention, essential tremor, and some anxiety physical symptoms when prescribed. It is also used in thyroid overactivity as part of specialist plans.
Tablets and oral solutions exist — use the formulation prescribed.
How does Propranolol work, and how long does it take to work?
It blocks beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart and elsewhere, slowing heart rate and reducing tremor and some stress-related physical symptoms.
Because it is non-selective, airway effects are more relevant in asthma than with some other beta-blockers.
How and when should you take Propranolol?
Dosing varies widely by condition — follow your label exactly, whether once daily long-acting or several times daily for some uses.
Do not stop suddenly after long-term use for angina or after heart attack history without medical guidance.
What are the common side effects of Propranolol?
Tiredness, cold extremities, sleep disturbance, and slow pulse are possible. Gut upset or Raynaud-type finger colour changes occur in some people.
Report wheeze or new breathing problems promptly.
Serious side effects of Propranolol — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for severe wheeze, fainting, depression with suicidal thoughts, or severe allergic reactions.
Hypoglycaemia awareness may be blunted in diabetes — discuss with your diabetes team.
What if you miss a dose of Propranolol?
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless nearly time for the next; do not double.
Who should not take Propranolol?
Uncontrolled asthma, certain heart blocks, and some severe circulation problems are cautions. Pregnancy needs specialist input.
Full medicine lists matter before surgery.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Propranolol? — other interactions
Other rate-slowing drugs, ergot medicines, and some psychiatric drugs need review. Alcohol can enhance side effects.
Propranolol in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Discuss with your prescriber — use in pregnancy is individually judged. Small amounts may enter breast milk.
Blood tests and monitoring on Propranolol
Pulse and blood pressure may be checked when starting. Migraine or tremor benefit may take weeks to assess.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Propranolol?
Other beta-blockers or entirely different classes may suit you if propranolol is poorly tolerated.
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Frequently asked questions about Propranolol
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Propranolol used for?
- Propranolol is a non-cardioselective beta-blocker used in the UK for high blood pressure, angina, migraine prevention, essential tremor, and some anxiety physical symptoms when prescribed. It is also used in thyroid overactivity as part of specialist plans.
- How long does Propranolol take to work?
- Blood pressure can fall over days to weeks after starting or changing dose; attend follow-up checks your GP arranges. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Propranolol with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Propranolol with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Propranolol?
- Tiredness, cold extremities, sleep disturbance, and slow pulse are possible. Gut upset or Raynaud-type finger colour changes occur in some people. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Does propranolol help anxiety?
- It can reduce physical symptoms such as palpitations and shaking in some people, but it is not a first-line treatment for all anxiety disorders. Psychological therapies and other medicines are often important — your GP can outline options.
- Can I drink coffee on propranolol?
- Moderate caffeine is not usually banned, but it can add to palpitations. If caffeine triggers symptoms, cutting down may help — ask your clinician if unsure.
Need personalised advice?
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Often used with
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