Propranolol (HCl)
Propranolol (HCl) is the prototype of ß-adrenergic antagonist and blocks both ß1 and ß2 receptors. Propranolol (HCl) is anti-anginal, anti-arrhythmic agent and anti-hypertensive agent. Administered orally or intravenously. It is also used in prevention of MI (myocardial infarction), migraine and anxiety disorders.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Isopropylaminoalcohol.
It belongs to Beta adrenergic antagonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Anti arrhythmic agents pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 295.8 · pKa: 9.5 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 20 · Non-proprietary name: Propranolol (HCl).

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Propranolol (HCl) has an oral bioavailability is 96.5% (±1.5%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 72.5% (±22.5%).
Distribution: Propranolol (HCl) has a volume of distribution is 2.3 - 5.5 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 80 - 95 %.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 3 - 6 hr, renal excretion is > 90 %.
Advertisement
Indications
Propranolol (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Angina, Anxiety tachycardia, Arrhythmias, Cardiac arrhythmia, Hypertension, Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, Induction and maintenance of anaesthesia, Induction of general anaesthesia, Iron deficiency anaemia, Migraine, Migraine prophylaxis, Obstructive cardiomyopathy, Reduction of raised intracranial pressure, Renal hypertension, Thyrotoxicosis (adjunct).
Propranolol (HCl) is also indicated for secondary conditions like Anxiety, Phaeochromocytoma, Thyrotoxicosis.
Contraindications
Propranolol (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Acidosis, Asthma, Heart failure, Cardiogenic shock, Bronchospasm, Haemorrhage, Heart block.
Dosage
Propranolol (HCl)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 25 mg | 25 mg | Every 8h | PO | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.375 mg/kg | 0.375 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0.375 mg/kg | 0.375 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | - |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Propranolol (HCl) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Agranulocytosis , Eosinophilia , Hypoglycemia, Thrombocytopenia , Visual hallucination .
Propranolol (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Severe bradycardia, Severe bronchospasm, Hypotension, Bradyarrhythmias , Hypoglycemia, Cardiogenic shock. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Propranolol (HCl) are Coma, Seizures, Convulsions .
Propranolol (HCl) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Cold extremities, Constipation , Diarrhea, Fatigue, Impotence, Insomnia, Lassitude , Nausea, Vivid dreams.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Propranolol (HCl) may interfere in the diagnosis of Determination of Metanephrines by Pisano Method , Bilirubin measurements by Diazo Method .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.7.2 — Migraine prophylaxis
- 2.12.3.1 — Beta blocking agents