Propranolol Hydrochloride

Generic Name

Propranolol Hydrochloride

Other Names

• Inderal

Drug Class

• Beta-blocker

Chemical Formula

C16H21NO2 · HCl

Molecular Weight

295.8 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• Non-selective beta-adrenergic antagonist

Indications

• Hypertension
• Angina
• Arrhythmias
• Migraine prophylaxis
• Anxiety

Common Dosage Forms

• Tablet
• Capsule
• Syrup
• Injection

Typical Dosage

• 40-240mg per day, divided into 2-4 doses

Pediatric Dosage

• Safety and efficacy not established for children

Geriatric Dosage

• Start with lower doses due to decreased hepatic and renal function

Side Effects

• Fatigue
• Bradycardia
• Hypotension
• Dizziness
• Cold extremities

Contraindications

• Cardiogenic shock
• Heart block greater than first degree
• Severe bradycardia

Pregnancy Category

• C

Lactation Safety

• Considered compatible with breastfeeding by the American Academy of Pediatrics

Drug Interactions

• Warfarin
• Digoxin
• Diuretics
• Antidiabetic drugs

Overdose Symptoms

• Bradycardia
• Hypotension
• Cardiac failure

Antidote for Overdose

• Atropine
• Isoproterenol
• Dopamine

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract
• Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, excreted in breast milk
• Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP2D6
• Excretion: Mainly renal

Precautions

• Caution in patients with asthma or COPD due to bronchoconstriction risk

Warnings

• Abrupt discontinuation can lead to rebound hypertension or tachycardia

Others

• May mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia