propranolol
a drug (see BETA BLOCKER ) used to treat abnormal heart rhythm, angina, and high blood pressure and also taken to relieve anxiety. It is administered by mouth or injection; common side-effects include digestive upsets, insomnia, and lassitude.
Propranolol is used to treat high blood pressure irregular heartbeats pheochromocytoma (tumor on a small gland near the kidneys) certain types of tremor hypertrophic subaortic stenosis (a heart muscle disease angina (chest pain) migraine headaches Propranolol is also used to improve survival after a heart attack. Propranolol is in a class of medications called beta blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing heart rate to improve blood flow and decrease blood pressure.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking propranolol affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether propranolol can make it harder to become pregnant. If a male partner takes propranolol, the medication may contribute to erectile dysfunction in some men, which could make conception more difficult. Anyone with concerns about fertility while taking propranolol should discuss them with their healthcare provider.
Does taking propranolol increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons. The available data suggests that no studies have been done to determine whether propranolol increases the chance of miscarriage. This is something to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Does taking propranolol increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy starts with a background risk of 3–5% for birth defects. According to the fact sheet, it is not known whether propranolol specifically raises this risk, but studies of beta-blockers as a group have not reported an increased chance of birth defects. Decisions about continuing or changing the medication should be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking propranolol during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet notes that propranolol has been linked with reduced fetal growth, though it is unclear whether this is due to the medication, the underlying condition being treated, or other factors; studies have not shown an increase in other issues such as preterm birth. Use late in pregnancy may lead to effects in the newborn such as a slow heart rate or low blood sugar, though not all exposed babies will experience these. Letting your healthcare team know you take propranolol helps ensure the baby can be monitored and cared for appropriately.
Can taking propranolol during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
According to available data, no studies have been conducted to determine whether propranolol use in pregnancy causes behavioral or learning problems in the child. Questions about long-term child development should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking propranolol?
The fact sheet states that propranolol passes into breast milk in small amounts, and available studies have not found adverse effects in breastfed babies of people taking propranolol. If a baby shows signs such as excessive sleepiness or feeding difficulties, the child's healthcare provider should be contacted. Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions related to breastfeeding while on this medication.
Source: National Library of Medicine
propranolol