Propranolol
Tablet
Quick Summary
Propranolol blocks adrenaline's effects on the heart and body.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Take as prescribed. Keep taking it even if you feel well, and don't stop suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Tiredness
Common.
Cold hands and feet
Sometimes.
Slow heartbeat
Dizziness if too slow.
Interactions
Some calcium channel blockers
Verapamil and diltiazem can slow the heart too much.
Asthma inhalers
Beta blockers can block salbutamol.
Diabetes medicines
Can mask signs of low sugar.
Critical Warnings
Asthma
Black Box Warning: Can trigger serious asthma attacks; usually avoided.
Don't stop suddenly
Reduce slowly.
Overdose
Black Box Warning: Dangerous; keep away from children.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Propranolol: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Propranolol: medicine for heart problems, anxiety and migraine(opens in a new tab) · NHS