Non-cardioselective b-blockers (beta-blockers).

Propranolol - hypertension/thyroid

Beta-Prograne: white sustained- release capsules. Half Beta-Prograne: clear/white sustained-release capsules.

Beta-Prograne: Propranolol hydrochloride 160 mg . Half Beta-Prograne: Propranolol hydrochloride 80 mg .

Hypertension. Adjunct in thyrotoxicosis.

Beta-Prograne: Hypertension, 160 mg daily, increasing if necessary by 80 mg daily; maximum 320 mg daily. Half Beta-Prograne: Thyrotoxicosis, 80 mg or 160 mg daily; maximum 240 mg daily.

Not recommended.

2nd or 3rd degree AV block, sinus bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, severe peripheral arterial disease, uncompensated cardiac failure, cardiogenic shock, hypotension, right ventricular failure secondary to pulmonary hypertension, significant cardiomegaly, untreated phaechromocytoma. Non- cardioselective b-blockers are also generally contra-indicated in patients with obstructive airways disease or a history of bronchospasm.

Poor cardiac reserve should be controlled with digitalis and diuretics. Diabetes; metabolic acidosis. Asthenic symptoms. Cerebrovascular insufficiency. Renal or hepatic impairment, thyrotoxic crisis. General anaesthesia; consider withdrawal Pregnancy, lactation. Withdraw gradually.

Clonidine withdrawal, verapamil, diltiazem, class II calcium antiarrhythmics, cardiac depressant anaesthetics, hypoglycaemics, reserpine, other antihypertensives, ergot alkaloids, cimetidine, rifampicin, theophylline, warfarin, CNS depressants, sympathominetics, indometacin (indomethacin).

Cold extremities, sleep disturbances (particularly with the more lipophilic drugs), bradycardia, exertional tiredness, bronchospasm, heart failure, hypotension, GI upset. If unexplained dry eyes or skin rash occur withdraw gradually.

Tillomed

(POM)