✅ Prescription (Indication):
Propranolol 20 mg is prescribed for:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Angina pectoris (chest pain)
- Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
- Migraine prophylaxis
- Essential tremor
- Anxiety (especially performance anxiety)
- Thyrotoxicosis (overactive thyroid)
- Prevention of myocardial infarction (heart attack)
📄 Description:
- Active Ingredient: Propranolol hydrochloride
- Strength: 20 mg per tablet
- Class: Non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker (Beta-blocker)
- Form: Oral tablet
- Mechanism: Blocks beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, reducing heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure.
🌟 Advantages:
- Effective in lowering blood pressure and heart rate
- Prevents migraines and tremors
- Useful in treating anxiety symptoms
- Reduces risk of heart complications post-MI
- Used in treating symptoms of hyperthyroidism and pheochromocytoma (with alpha-blockers)
⚗️ Nature of the Drug:
- Pharmacological Class: Beta-blocker (non-cardioselective)
- Onset of Action: 1 to 2 hours after oral intake
- Duration of Action: Typically 6 to 12 hours
- Prescription only: Yes
📦 Common Packaging:
- Blister pack: 10 tablets per strip
- Box: 10 strips (total 100 tablets)
- Available in combination with other antihypertensives in some cases
🧊 Storage:
- Store at room temperature (below 25°C)
- Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children
👨⚕️ Patient Advice:
Before Use:
- Inform doctor of asthma, diabetes, thyroid problems, or heart block
- May not be suitable for people with asthma or COPD due to bronchoconstriction risk
During Use:
- Take at the same time daily, with or without food
- Do not stop abruptly—risk of rebound hypertension or angina
- Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly
Avoid:
- Driving or operating heavy machinery if dizzy or tired
- Alcohol, as it may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect