Indications 

Inderal LA belongs to a class of medications known as beta-blockers, which exert their effects on the heart and circulatory system, influencing the flow of blood through arteries and veins. 

Inderal LA is prescribed for the treatment of various conditions related to the heart and circulatory system, including: 

• Tremors 
• Angina (chest pain) 
• Hypertension (high blood pressure) 
• Heart rhythm disorders 
• Other heart or circulatory conditions 

This medication is utilized to both treat and prevent heart attacks, as well as to mitigate the intensity and frequency of migraine headaches. 

Uses and Dosage 

Administer this medication orally according to the instructions provided by your doctor, usually once daily. Ensure to swallow the capsules whole and avoid crushing or chewing them. 

The appropriate dosage of this medication will be determined based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. 

For optimal effectiveness, use this medication consistently at the same time each day. Even if you feel well, continue taking this medication as prescribed. 

Please note that this medication is intended for the prevention of chest pain or migraines and should not be used to treat sudden occurrences of these conditions. For immediate relief during acute episodes, follow your doctor’s guidance on using other medications such as nitroglycerin tablets for chest pain or sumatriptan for migraines. For more detailed information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

It may take approximately 1 to 2 weeks before experiencing the full benefits of this medication. 

If you are taking certain cholesterol-lowering drugs (such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol), ensure a time interval of at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking propranolol. 

Inform your doctor if your condition worsens, such as experiencing increased routine blood pressure readings or more frequent episodes of chest pain or migraines. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reaction

Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of the following: 

• Slow or irregular heartbeats 
• Sensation of light-headedness or feeling faint 
• Wheezing or breathing difficulties 
• Shortness of breath, even with mild exertion, accompanied by swelling and rapid weight gain 
• Sudden weakness, vision problems, or loss of coordination, particularly in a child with facial or head hemangioma 
• Cold sensation in the hands and feet 
• Symptoms of depression, confusion, or hallucinations 
• Signs of liver problems such as nausea, upper abdominal pain, itching, fatigue, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Low blood sugar symptoms, including headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, confusion, irritability, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or jitteriness 
• Low blood sugar symptoms in a baby, such as pale or bluish skin, sweating, fussiness, crying, reluctance to eat, feeling cold, drowsiness, weak or shallow breathing (breathing may temporarily stop), seizures, or loss of consciousness 
• Severe skin reaction characterized by fever, sore throat, swelling of the face or tongue, burning sensation in the eyes, skin pain, followed by a widespread red or purple rash (particularly in the face or upper body), along with blistering and peeling 

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include: 

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach cramps 
• Decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty achieving orgasm 
• Sleep problems, such as insomnia 
• Fatigue or feelings of tiredness 

Cautions 

Inderal LA should not be used if you have any of the following conditions: 

• Asthma 
• History of fainting due to very slow heartbeats 
• Serious heart conditions such as “sick sinus syndrome” or “AV block” (unless you have a pacemaker) 

Before taking Inderal LA, ensure your doctor is aware of the following: 

• Muscle disorder 
• Bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorders 
• Low blood sugar or diabetes (as Inderal LA can mask symptoms of low blood sugar) 
• Slow heartbeats or low blood pressure 
• Congestive heart failure 
• Depression 
• Liver or kidney disease 
• Thyroid disorder 
• Pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor) 
• Circulation problems, such as Raynaud’s syndrome 

The potential effects of Inderal LA on an unborn baby are unknown. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while using this medication. 

Propranolol, the active ingredient in Inderal LA, can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.