Propranolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Propranolol is used to treat tremors, angina (chest pain), hypertension (high blood pressure), heart rhythm disorders, and other heart or circulatory conditions. It is also used to treat or prevent heart attack, and to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine headaches.

Propranolol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to propranolol, if you have asthma, a slow heart rate, or a serious heart condition such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker).

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using propranolol. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Do not skip doses or stop using propranolol without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your blood levels of propranolol.

Propranolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to propranolol, if you have asthma, a slow heart rate, or a serious heart condition such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker).

To make sure you can safely take propranolol, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• a muscle disorder;

• bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorders;

• diabetes (propranolol can make it harder for you to tell when you have low blood sugar);

• low blood pressure;

• congestive heart failure;

• depression;

• liver or kidney disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• pheochromocytoma; or

• problems with circulation (such as Raynaud's syndrome).

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether propranolol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Propranolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.