Beta-Prograne

What is it?

A non-cardioselective 1blocker available as white, sustained- release capsules containing 160mg of propranolol hydrochloride. Also, HALF-BETAPROGRANE, availableas white/clear, sustained-release capsules, containing 80mg of propranolol hydrochloride.

Medical Uses

Angina, hypertension, additional therapy in thyrotoxicosis, prevention of migraine.

Dosage

Adults only; angina: 80 to 160mg each day to a maximum dose of 240mg. Hypertension: 160mg each day increasing gradually, if required, by 80mg daily to a maximum dose of 320mg. Thyrotoxicosis and prevention of migraine: 80mg or 160mg each day with a maximum dose of 240mg.

Special Care

Patients with diabetes, liver or kidney disorders, poor cerebral circulation, history of bronchospasm, those undergoing general anaesthesia (drug may need to be stopped). Pregnant women and nursing mothers. Patients with weak hearts may need to be treated with digitalis and diuretic drugs.

Avoid Use

Children, patients with asthma or history of bronchospasm, those with heart block, heart attack, heart shock and various other cardiac disorders. Drug should be stopped gradually.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Verapamil, clonidine withdrawal, hyperglycaemics, class I anti-arrhythmic drugs, some anaesthetics, reserpine, sympathomimetics, antidepressants, ergotamine, ergot alkaloids, indometacin, cimetidine, diltiazem, class II calcium antagonists, CNS depressants, theophylline, warfarin, ibuprofen.

Known Side Effects

Slow heartbeat, disruption of sleep, cold hands and feet, fatigue in exercise, hair loss, gastro-intestinal upset, wheezing, heart failure, skin rash, dry eyes (withdraw drug gradually).