Inderal 20 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

INDERAL 20 MG TABLET

Name: Inderal 20 MG Tablet (Brand Name) / Propranolol (Common Name)

Composition: Each tablet contains Propranolol 20 mg as the active ingredient.

Uses: Inderal 20 MG Tablet is a beta-blocker primarily used for the management and prevention of various cardiovascular and other conditions. These include:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Angina pectoris (chest pain due to heart conditions)
• Arrhythmias (heart rhythm disorders)
• Migraine headaches (prevention)
• Essential tremors
• Anxiety and its physical symptoms
• Pheochromocytoma (a rare adrenal gland tumor)
• Hypertrophic subaortic stenosis (an abnormal thickening of heart muscle)
• To reduce cardiovascular mortality after a heart attack.

Dosage and Administration: Take Inderal 20 MG Tablet as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time daily. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly, as it can worsen your condition. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or break it.

Side Effects:

• Common Side Effects: Tiredness, dizziness, unusual weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cold fingers or toes, difficulty sleeping, and unusual dreams. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the medicine.
• Serious Side Effects: Slow or uneven heartbeats, lightheadedness, wheezing or trouble breathing, sudden weakness, vision problems, loss of coordination, cold feeling in hands and feet, depression, confusion, hallucinations, and swelling of ankles/feet/hands. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Precautions:

• Do not use if you have asthma, very slow heartbeats, or serious heart conditions like "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker).
• Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, a thyroid disorder, or circulation problems (e.g., Raynaud's syndrome).
• Propranolol may mask symptoms of low blood sugar in diabetic patients.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medicine.
• Use caution while driving or performing tasks requiring concentration, as it may cause dizziness and sleepiness.

Storage: Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about INDERAL 20 MG TABLET (propranolol).

What is INDERAL 20 MG TABLET used for?

INDERAL 20 MG TABLET, containing propranolol, is a beta-blocker primarily used to prevent angina (chest pain) and migraines. It also helps manage high blood pressure (hypertension), certain irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia), tremors, and conditions like pheochromocytoma (a rare adrenal gland tumor). Additionally, it can be used to control symptoms associated with anxiety and an overactive thyroid gland.

How does INDERAL 20 MG TABLET work?

INDERAL 20 MG TABLET works by blocking the effects of natural chemical messengers in the body, such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, particularly on the heart and blood vessels. This action slows down your heart rate, relaxes blood vessels, reduces the heart's workload, and consequently lowers blood pressure. It also helps to prevent abnormal nerve signals that can cause tremors and anxiety symptoms.

What is the usual dosage for INDERAL 20 MG TABLET?

The dosage of INDERAL 20 MG TABLET varies depending on the condition being treated and your individual response. For high blood pressure, an initial dose might be 40 mg twice daily, with maintenance typically ranging from 120 mg to 240 mg per day. For migraine prevention, the initial dose is often 80 mg daily in divided doses, usually increasing to an effective range of 160 mg to 240 mg per day. Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The tablets should be swallowed whole and can be taken with or without food, but consistently taking it the same way each time is recommended.

What are the possible side effects of INDERAL 20 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include tiredness, dizziness, weakness, cold fingers or toes, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sleep disturbances such as insomnia or vivid dreams. More serious, though rare, side effects that require immediate medical attention include very slow or uneven heartbeats, feeling light-headed or fainting, wheezing or trouble breathing, sudden weakness, vision problems, depression, or signs of an allergic reaction like hives or swelling of the face or throat.

Is INDERAL 20 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

INDERAL 20 MG TABLET may be unsafe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If used during pregnancy, there's a potential risk of low birth weight, low blood sugar, or slow breathing/heartbeat in the newborn. Propranolol, the active ingredient, passes into breast milk. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can INDERAL 20 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

INDERAL 20 MG TABLET can interact with many other medications, including certain blood pressure medications (like calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors), other heart medicines (e.g., digitalis), blood thinners (like warfarin), antidepressants, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, indomethacin), and certain asthma medications (e.g., theophylline). Alcohol consumption should also be avoided as it can increase the effects of INDERAL. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using INDERAL 20 MG TABLET?

Do not stop taking INDERAL 20 MG TABLET suddenly, as this can worsen your condition and may lead to serious heart problems. Your doctor will likely advise a gradual reduction in dosage if it needs to be discontinued. It should be used with caution or avoided if you have asthma, very slow heartbeats, severe heart conditions (like heart failure or certain heart blocks), severe kidney or liver problems, or very low blood pressure. If you have diabetes, propranolol can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar, so monitor your blood sugar levels carefully. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery, as the medicine can cause dizziness or sleepiness.

What happens if a dose of INDERAL 20 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of INDERAL 20 MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (e.g., less than 4 hours away for immediate-release forms), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should INDERAL 20 MG TABLET be stored?

INDERAL 20 MG TABLET should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), and protected from moisture, light, and excessive heat. Keep the medication in its original, tightly closed container and out of the reach of children.