Propranolol is a non-selective beta blocker mainly used as a antianginal, antiarrhythmic, antihypertensive, antitimigraine drug. Propranolol is not a benzodiazepine, it belongs to a group of drugs known as beta blockers. Beta blockers are not FDA approved for the treatment of anxiety or nervous tension but are generally used to do so. Propranolol is also used in the treatment of aggressive behavior, angina, certain types of pain, high blood pressure, migraine headaches, narcotic withdrawal, panic attacks, pectoris, phobias, schizophrenia, tremors, to help prevent second heart attack and the effects of antipsychotic drugs. This drug is not habit forming and may be taken for months or even years.
 
Propranolol is indicated for the management of various conditions including:

• Hypertension
• Angina
• Tachyarrhythmias
• Myocardial infarction
• Control of tachycardia/tremor associated with anxiety and hyperthyroidism
• Essential tremor
• Migraine prophylaxis
• Tetralogy of Fallot
• Phaeochromocytoma (along with alpha blocker)

It is also used to lower portal vein pressure in portal hypertension and prevent oesophageal variceal bleeding. Propranolol is currently being investigated as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder

The usual maintenance dose ranges for oral propranolol therapy vary by indication.

• Hypertension, angina, essential tremor
  • 120?320 mg daily in divided doses
• Tachyarrhythmia, anxiety, hyperthyroidism
  • 10?40 mg 3?4 times daily

Propranolol is a non-selective beta blocker, that is, it blocks the action of epinephrine on both beta1- and beta2-adrenergic receptors. It has little intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) but has strong membrane stabilising activity.

Before taking any prescription medicine, it is important that you consult your doctor!