Regarding the dosage of Inderal?
Hello Doctor, I have hypertension and hyperthyroidism, and I tend to be easily anxious.
My heart rate usually ranges between 95-110 beats per minute, and I often feel uncomfortable.
I visited a doctor who prescribed me Inderal (propranolol) 10 mg, with a dosage of two tablets three times a day to help control my heart rate.
After taking Inderal, my heart rate does decrease to between 80-90 beats per minute, which feels quite good.
However, I would like to ask the doctor if taking six tablets of Inderal a day, totaling 60 mg, is too high of a dosage? Will long-term use of this medication have any effects on my body? Thank you, Doctor.
A-Zhi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/24
Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, this dosage is not too high, and long-term use will not have any adverse effects on your body, so there's no need to worry.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.
Reply Date: 2020/11/24
More Info
When considering the use of Inderal (propranolol) at a dosage of 60mg daily for managing heart rate and anxiety, it is important to understand both the medication's pharmacological properties and the individual patient's health profile. Inderal is a non-selective beta-blocker commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension, anxiety, and certain types of heart rhythm disorders.
In your case, you mentioned that you have hypertension and hyperthyroidism, along with a tendency to experience anxiety, which can contribute to elevated heart rates. The prescribed dosage of Inderal, as you noted, is 10mg taken three times a day, totaling 60mg. This dosage is within the typical range for managing anxiety and heart rate issues, especially in patients with your health conditions.
However, it is crucial to monitor the response to this medication closely. While many patients tolerate this dosage well, some may experience side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, or bradycardia (a slower than normal heart rate). Since you reported that Inderal effectively lowered your heart rate to a more comfortable range (80-90 bpm), it seems to be working as intended.
Long-term use of Inderal at this dosage is generally considered safe for most patients, but it is essential to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. They can monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and any potential side effects. Additionally, since you have hyperthyroidism, managing this condition effectively is crucial, as it can influence your heart rate and overall cardiovascular health.
It's also worth noting that anxiety can significantly impact heart rate and overall well-being. While Inderal can help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, it is often beneficial to incorporate other therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques, or lifestyle modifications, to address the underlying anxiety itself.
If you ever feel that the dosage is too high or if you experience any concerning symptoms (such as excessive fatigue, dizziness, or a heart rate that drops too low), you should reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. They may consider adjusting the dosage or exploring alternative treatments that could be more suitable for your situation.
In summary, a daily dosage of 60mg of Inderal can be safe for managing heart rate and anxiety, particularly in the context of your health conditions. However, ongoing communication with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure that the treatment remains effective and safe over time. Regular monitoring and a holistic approach to managing both your physical and mental health will contribute to better outcomes.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Inderal Use for Heart Rhythm Issues and Anxiety Management
I am experiencing shortness of breath and chest tightness, mostly in the early morning after waking up or after meals. I have consulted specialists in pulmonology, cardiology, and gastroenterology. The gastroenterologist diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) an...
Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
MIKE, you can take your medication as needed for discomfort, but if the frequency of episodes increases, it is advisable to return to a regular dosing schedule. If your heart rate is slow and you are not experiencing discomfort, there is no need to worry; just monitor the situati...[Read More] Understanding Inderal Use for Heart Rhythm Issues and Anxiety Management
Understanding Low Doses of Inderal: Is Three Pills a Week Considered Low?
The low dose of Inderal (propranolol) can vary depending on the condition being treated. Generally, a low dose for anxiety or performance anxiety might be around 10 to 20 mg taken one to three times a day. Taking three pills in a week could be considered a low dose, but it ultima...
Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello CC: Inderal is commonly used in psychiatry to manage anxiety, with a typical dosage ranging from 10 to 40 mg per dose, taken three times a day. This amounts to three pills per week, which is considered a low dosage. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Low Doses of Inderal: Is Three Pills a Week Considered Low?
Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing palpitations recently. My heart rate was around 120 beats per minute, but after taking the Inderal prescribed by the doctor, it decreased to about 75 beats per minute. However, after 2 to 3 days, my heart rate increased again to around 90 be...
Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Dear Chingfen, based on your description, there may be several conditions such as autonomic nervous system dysfunction, endocrine disorders, or insufficient medication dosage. It is recommended that you return to the outpatient clinic for further follow-up and treatment. Changhua...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Heartbeats: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Rapid Heartbeat and High Blood Pressure in Anxiety Disorders
Dear Doctor, I have generalized anxiety disorder, autonomic nervous system dysregulation, and panic disorder. Over the past two years, I have experienced tachycardia (suspected to be anxiety-related), with my heart rate occasionally exceeding 200 beats per minute. However, when I...
Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, if you do not have hypertension, there is no need to take antihypertensive medication. You can continue with your current medication. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Managing Rapid Heartbeat and High Blood Pressure in Anxiety Disorders
Related FAQ
(Cardiology)
Medication Side Effects(Cardiology)
Medication Consultation(Cardiology)
Adrenaline(Internal Medicine)
Lightheadedness(Cardiology)
Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction(Cardiology)
Breathing(Cardiology)
Anticoagulants(Cardiology)
Exercise Stress Test(Cardiology)
Rapid Heartbeat(Cardiology)