INDERAL (PROPRANOLOL)

Inderal is Prescribed to Treat Hypertension

Inderal or generic Propanolol is prescribed as part of the treatment for a condition called hypertension (high blood pressure), which develops when the blood pushes too forcefully against the blood vessels. Untreated hypertension can put a lot of added strain on the cardiovascular system, increasing your risk for heart attacks and strokes. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

You may be recommended to take Inderal for treating other conditions that affect your heart or circulatory system, including angina and heart rhythm disorders. Inderal may also be prescribed as a regular treatment to prevent migraines, although it will not relieve an attack that has already started.

How Inderal Works as a Beta-Blocker

Inderal is classified as a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of 2 hormones called adrenaline and noradrenaline. This action results in slowing your heart rate while lessening the pressure of the blood flow that is pumping around in your body. Another hormone, angiotensin II, is blocked as well in order to allow your blood vessels to relax so normal blood flow is restored.

Other Conditions Treated by Inderal

Angina attacks are warning signs that your heart is working over-time and needs more oxygen. This makes Inderal a useful medication in the management of angina, but it will not cure this condition. If angina worsens, the next attack may be a heart attack.

Inderal may also be prescribed to control symptoms that are associated with anxiety or an overactive thyroid gland, such as a racing pulse, sweating and tremor. This is because it blocks the effects of adrenaline.

Before You Take Inderal

Do not take Inderal if you have asthma or serious heart disease. Also, be sure to let your doctor know if you have any muscle, breathing, thyroid, kidney, or liver problems before you start it. Ask your doctor if Inderal is safe to take if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding.

Precautions for Inderal

Until you know how Inderal will affect you, avoid any activities that require you to be clear-headed and steady on your feet. Keep all drugs out of children’s reach and never share these meds with anyone.

During treatment, you should avoid certain food products and medications. These include alcoholic beverages, as well as blood thinners, anti-depressants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); failure to do so may result in negative interactions and more severe side effects.

Possible Side Effects of Inderal

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Decreased sex drive