Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PROPRANOLOL - INJECTION

(pro-PRAN-oh-lol)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Inderal

WARNING: If you have angina or have had heart problems, do not suddenly stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor. If your doctor decides you should no longer use this medication, you must stop this medication gradually according to your doctor's instructions.

Uses

Propranolol injection is used for life-threatening heart arrhythmias and to temporarily replace oral dosage forms of this drug when undergoing surgery.

How To Use

This medication is given by injection into a vein (intravenous) and must be used exactly as directed by the doctor.

Side Effects

You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, and blurred vision as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if you develop: breathing difficulties, easy bruising or bleeding, swollen hands or feet, confusion, sore throat, depression. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or other lung diseases, diabetes, an overactive thyroid, allergies (especially drug allergies). Before having any surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking propranolol. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risk and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: diuretics, cold preparations and nasal decongestants, high blood pressure drugs, reserpine, other heart medications, St John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slowed heartbeat and dizziness and weakness especially upon standing.

Notes

This drug is used only under the close supervision of your doctor in a hospital or clinic.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, consult the doctor. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).