Propranolol HCI - generic
Inderal - is a beta- adrenergic blocking agent. Propranolol blocks the
action of the sympathetic nervous system, a portion of the involuntary
nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system stimulates the pace of
the heart beat. By blocking the action of these nerves, propranolol
reduces the heart rate and is useful in treating abnormally rapid heart
rhythms. Propranolol also reduces the force of heart muscle contraction
and lowers hypertension (high blood pressure). By reducing the heart
rate and the force of muscle contraction, propranolol reduces heart
muscle oxygen demand. Since angina occurs when oxygen demand of the
heart exceeds supply, propranolol is helpful in treating angina.
SIDE EFFECTS: Propranolol is generally well tolerated, and side
effects are mild and transient. Rare side effects include abdominal
cramps, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, insomnia, nausea, depression,
dreaming, memory loss, fever, impotence, lightheadedness, slow heart
rate, low blood pressure, numbness, tingling, cold extremities, sore
throat, and shortness of breath or wheezing. |
