Propranolol
Also known as: Inderal
What it's for
Propranolol is a beta blocker. It slows your heart and reduces blood pressure. It treats high blood pressure, anxiety, tremor, migraine prevention, and overactive thyroid symptoms.
Comes as: Tablets or capsules
How to take it
- Dose varies depending on what it is treating.
- For anxiety: Usually 40mg 2 or 3 times a day, or 40mg as a one-off before stressful events.
- Take at the same times each day.
- Do not stop taking it suddenly if used regularly.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Feeling tired or dizzy
- Cold hands and feet
- Slow heartbeat
- Sleep problems or nightmares
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Not suitable if you have asthma
- Do not stop suddenly after regular use - taper off gradually
- Can mask symptoms of low blood sugar in diabetes
- May make you feel dizzy - take care when driving
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have severe breathing difficulties
- Your heart beats very slowly or irregularly
- You have severe dizziness or fainting
- You have very cold, blue fingers or toes
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.