Indications
Inderal LA is a prescription medication used for the treatment of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and prevention of angina pectoris. Inderal LA contains the active ingredient propranolol hydrochlorid. It belongs to a group of medicines known as beta-blockers and comes in a sustained-release capsule form for once-daily administration.
It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body (such as epinephrine) that affect the heart and blood vessels. This effect can help to lower blood pressure, reduce heart strain, and prevent angina (chest pain) in people with heart conditions. In addition, propranolol is also used to prevent migraines, reduce anxiety symptoms, and treat certain types of tremors.
Uses and Dosage
Inderal LA is available in tablet form and should be taken orally as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once a day and can be taken with or without food. Be sure to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and do not break, chew, or crush the long-acting capsules, as doing so may release the active ingredients too quickly and increase the risk of side effects.
Take Inderal LA regularly and on a consistent schedule to avoid missing doses. If you are also taking medication for high cholesterol, such as colestipol or cholestyramine, take Inderal LA at least one hour before or four hours after taking these medications.
Do not change your Inderal LA dosage without consulting your doctor, as it is based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. The tablet is not intended for hypertensive emergencies or migraine attacks. Additionally, do not stop taking Inderal LA suddenly, as this can worsen your condition.
The recommended starting dosage of Inderal LA for the treatment of high blood pressure is 80 mg once daily, which may be increased to 120 mg once daily if needed. The dosage for the prevention of migraines is also typically 80 mg taken once daily, with the possibility of an increased dosage over time as determined by your doctor. However, note that the exact dosage may vary depending on individual medical conditions and response to treatment, and should be determined by a healthcare professional.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Inderal LA (Propranolol Hcl):
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Trouble sleeping
- Unusual dreams
- Vision changes
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Inderal LA (Propranolol Hcl):
- Blue fingers and toes
- Decreased sexual ability
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Fainting
- Infection symptoms (fever, chills, persistent sore throat)
- Joint pain
- Mental or mood changes
- Numbness or tingling of the extremities
- Symptoms of heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling of the extremities, sudden weight gain, unusual tiredness)
- Very slow heartbeat
Form and Strength
Inderal LA (Propranolol Hcl) is available in the following forms and strength:
Inderal LA: Tablet
- 40 mg
- 60 mg
- 80 mg
- 120 mg
- 160 mg
Caution
- Inderal LA can affect the way your heart works, so it should be used with caution if you have heart problems such as heart failure or a slow heart rate.
- If you have asthma, emphysema, or other breathing conditions, you should use Inderal LA with caution as the medication may make your breathing worse.
- Inderal LA can affect blood sugar levels, so if you have diabetes, your blood sugar level should be closely monitored while taking this medication.
- Inderal LA can interact with other medications, let your doctor know about any other prescription, over the counter or herbal medications you are taking.
- You should talk to your doctor about using Inderal LA during pregnancy or while breastfeeding as it may not be safe for the baby.
- Inderal LA is processed by the liver and kidneys, so if you have liver or kidney problems, your doctor may adjust the dose of the medication.
- If you are allergic to propranolol or any other beta-blocker, you should not take Inderal LA.
- Inderal LA may worsen symptoms of depression or other mental health conditions, so it should be used with caution in people with these conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Inderal LA be prescribed for anxiety?
Yes, Inderal LA can be prescribed for anxiety. It is sometimes used off-label to treat symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and sweating.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Inderal LA?
It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Inderal LA, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness.
How long does it take for Inderal LA to start working?
It can take several days or even weeks for Inderal LA to start working effectively, as the drug needs to build up in the body over time.
Can Inderal LA be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Inderal LA is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may harm the developing fetus. It is also not known whether the drug passes into breast milk, so it is recommended to avoid taking Inderal LA while breastfeeding.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/016418s080,016762s017,017683s008lbl.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682607.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/inderal-la-drug.htm
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/inderal-la
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-494/inderal-la-oral/details
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