Propranolol 80mg ER (Extended-Release) 100 Capsules

Propranolol 80mg slow-release capsules release the medicine gradually through the day, so one capsule taken once a day gives a steady effect. They're used when a prescriber decides that regular daily treatment is right, for example for ongoing physical symptoms of anxiety such as a racing heart and shaking. They aren't designed to be taken just before a one-off event. A UK prescriber reviews a short online consultation before supplying them.

Propranolol 80mg slow-release at a glance

About this pack

Because of supply shortages in the UK, this product is an imported pack from the United States, where it's called extended-release (ER). It isn't licensed in the UK, so the packaging and leaflet may be American. Your prescriber will explain this before supplying it, and you can ask us any questions.

How does propranolol work?

When you feel anxious, your body releases adrenaline, which makes your heart beat faster and can cause sweating and shaking. Propranolol is a beta blocker: it blocks some of these effects, so your heart rate stays steadier and the shaking eases. It doesn't change anxious thoughts or worries.

The slow-release capsule lets the medicine out gradually over around 24 hours, which is why it's taken once a day rather than several times.

How to take propranolol slow-release capsules

• Take one capsule once a day, at about the same time each day, unless your prescriber tells you otherwise.
• Swallow it whole with a drink of water. Don't crush, open or chew it, as this releases the medicine too quickly.
• You can take it with or without food.
• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for the next one. Don't take two doses to make up for a missed one.
• Don't stop taking it suddenly. If you want to stop, speak to your prescriber first.

For anxiety before a single event, such as a presentation or an interview, standard propranolol 10mg and 40mg tablets taken about an hour beforehand are usually more suitable.

Who can't take propranolol?

Don't take propranolol if you have:

• asthma, or have ever had wheezing, because it can cause a severe asthma attack;
• a very slow or uneven heartbeat, or second or third degree heart block;
• very low blood pressure, or shock caused by heart problems;
• heart failure that isn't under control;
• severe circulation problems;
• an allergy to propranolol or any of the ingredients.

Tell us first if you have diabetes (propranolol can hide the warning signs of a low blood sugar), COPD, kidney or liver problems, thyroid problems, depression, or severe allergies, such as to insect stings. Tell us too if you're pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.

Propranolol and your safety

Propranolol can be very dangerous if too much is taken. If you're feeling low, or having thoughts of harming yourself, please tell us or speak to your GP. We won't supply propranolol if it isn't safe for you. If you're struggling right now, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123, at any time.

If you or someone else has taken too much propranolol, call 999 or go to A&E straight away, even if you feel well.

Side effects of propranolol

• Common: tiredness, cold hands and feet, a slow heartbeat, sleep problems or nightmares, and feeling sick or diarrhoea.
• Less common: dry eyes, skin rash, hair thinning and erection problems.

Get medical advice straight away if you have breathlessness, a very slow heartbeat, fainting, swelling of your ankles, confusion, or unusual bruising or bleeding. If you've been taking propranolol regularly, don't stop suddenly unless a doctor tells you to: the dose usually needs to be reduced gradually.

Call 999 if you have severe wheezing, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the lips, face or throat.

Other medicines

Don't take propranolol with verapamil or diltiazem. Tell us if you take any of these, or anything else:

• other medicines for blood pressure or your heart, such as lacidipine, nisoldipine, disopyramide or quinidine;
• medicines for diabetes, including insulin;
• anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen or indometacin;
• fluvoxamine, cimetidine, rifampicin, theophylline or warfarin;
• adrenaline, for example in an allergy pen.

Other help for anxiety

Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), are recommended for ongoing anxiety, and in England you can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies without seeing a GP. Our page on anxiety treatment covers talking therapies, self-help and when propranolol is suitable.

How to get propranolol from MedsRus

1. Complete a short, confidential consultation about your symptoms, your health, your mental health and any medicines you take.
2. A UK prescriber reviews it and decides whether this medicine is suitable and safe for you.
3. We send it in plain, discreet packaging.

Propranolol slow-release FAQs

Can I take a slow-release capsule just before an event?

These capsules aren't designed for that. They release propranolol slowly over the day and are taken once a day, every day. For anxiety before a one-off event, a prescriber would usually suggest standard propranolol tablets instead.

How long does slow-release propranolol take to work?

It releases the medicine gradually, so it takes several hours to build up and then gives a steady effect through the day. Taking it at the same time each day keeps the level even.

Can I stop taking it suddenly?

No. If you've been taking propranolol regularly, stopping suddenly can cause a fast heartbeat or chest pain. Speak to your prescriber, as the dose usually needs to be reduced gradually.

Can I take propranolol if I have asthma?

No. Propranolol can cause a severe asthma attack, even if your asthma is mild. Tell us if you've ever had asthma, wheezing or COPD.

Can I drink alcohol with propranolol?

Alcohol can add to the blood pressure lowering effect of propranolol and make you feel dizzy. It's best to avoid it, or keep to small amounts, until you know how the capsules affect you.

Sources:

• NHS: Propranolol
• NICE: Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults (CG113)
• NHS: Talking therapies