Propranolol For Anxiety:
Propranolol is classified as a beta blocker. It is sold in the United States under the brand name Inderal. When combined with the diuretic, hydrochlorothiazide, it is sold under the brand name Inderide. Propranolol also is produced as a generic product by a number of generic manufacturers. Propranolol is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), angina, certain types of cardiac Arrhythmia's, certain types of cardiac output diseases, a sympathetic nervous system disorder known as Pheochromocytoma, hyperthyroid conditions, migraine, heart attack, and tremors of a variety of origins.
Propranolol for Anxiety is used in various conditions including:
Hypertension, Angina pectoris, Tachyarrhythmias, Myocardial infarction, Control of tachycardia/tremor associated with anxiety, hyperthyroidism or lithium therapy, Essential tremor, Migraine prophylaxis,Cluster headaches prophylaxis, Tension headache, Shaky hands, Hyperhidrosis. Propranolol is currently being investigated as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. Propranolol works to inhibit the actions of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that enhances memory consolidation. Studies have shown that individuals given propranolol immediately after a traumatic experience show less severe symptoms of PTSD compared to their respective control groups that did not receive the drug.
Propranolol for anxiety reduces the effects of nightmare-related cardiac activity by keeping sinus rhythm low during nightmares, as a higher pulse and increased adrenaline are associated with severe nightmares. However, results remain inconclusive as to the success of propranolol in treatment of PTSD, including nightmares experienced by those with PTSD. There are also many ethical and legal questions surrounding the use of Propranolol-based medications for use as a "memory dampener," including: altering (memory-recalled) evidence during an investigation, modifying behavioral response to past (albeit traumatic) experiences, the regulation of these drugs, and others.
Dosages Recommended By Investigators:
You can take a 20 to 40 mg dose of propranolol as needed about one hour before a stressful situation. If necessary, you can also combine it with imipramine or alprazolam without adverse effects.
Possible Side Effects:
Taken occasionally, propranolol has almost no side effects. Some people may feel a little light-headed, sleepy, short-term memory loss, unusually slow pulse, lethargy, insomnia, diarrhea, cold hands and feet, numbness and/or tingling of fingers and toes.
