Inderal (Propranolol): Practical Guide for Uses, Dosing & Safety

Inderal is a brand name for propranolol, a beta-blocker many doctors prescribe for high blood pressure, migraines, tremors, anxiety spikes, and some heart rhythm problems. This guide gives straightforward, usable info: what Inderal does, common doses, side effects to watch for, and quick tips so you use it safely.

What Inderal is used for

People take Inderal for several reasons. For high blood pressure it lowers heart rate and eases the heart’s workload. Migraine prevention is another common use—taken daily it reduces attack frequency. It also helps with essential tremor, certain arrhythmias, symptoms of hyperthyroidism, and performance or situational anxiety (like stage fright).

Typical doses and timing

Doses vary by condition and by whether you have immediate-release (IR) or extended-release (ER) tablets. Typical ranges you’ll see from clinicians: - Hypertension: 40–160 mg per day in divided doses. - Migraine prevention: 80–240 mg per day (often split or in ER form). - Essential tremor: 40–120 mg daily. - Performance anxiety: a single low dose, often 10–40 mg taken 30–60 minutes before the event. Always follow your prescriber—these ranges are common but not one-size-fits-all.

If you have liver disease, older age, or take other heart meds, your doctor may start lower and increase slowly. Never double up doses to make up for a missed pill without medical advice.

Quick tip: ER tablets are usually taken once a day, IR tablets are split. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.

Side effects and red flags

Common side effects are tiredness, cold hands or feet, dizziness when standing up, and a slower heartbeat. Some people report vivid dreams or sleep trouble. Serious warning signs that need immediate care: trouble breathing or wheezing (especially if you have asthma), fainting, chest pain, very slow pulse, or sudden severe dizziness.

Important drug interactions

Inderal can interact with other heart medicines — especially certain calcium channel blockers (like verapamil or diltiazem), which together can cause dangerously slow heart rate or heart block. It can mask low blood sugar signs in people using insulin or oral diabetes drugs. NSAIDs may reduce its blood-pressure lowering effect. Tell your provider about all meds and supplements you take.

Safety pointers

Do not stop Inderal suddenly. Withdrawal can cause rapid heart rate, higher blood pressure, or chest pain. If you plan to stop, your doctor will usually taper the dose. Inderal is prescription-only; discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your provider because it crosses the placenta and can affect newborns.

Measure your pulse and blood pressure at home when starting or changing dose. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture. If you notice breathing problems, fainting, or a very slow pulse, get urgent care. Questions? Bring them to your prescriber—this helps you get the benefits while minimizing risks.