- Class
- Beta blockers
- Body system
- Cardiovascular
- Brand names
- Inderal LA, InnoPran XL
- Antidote or reversal
- Glucagon is used for beta-blocker overdose.
What is Propranolol used for?
- Hypertension
- Angina
- Migraine prevention
- Essential tremor
- Symptom control in hyperthyroidism
- Dysrhythmias
How Propranolol works
Nonselective beta blocker: blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart and beta-2 receptors in the lungs and blood vessels.
Common side effects
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances and vivid dreams
- Sexual dysfunction
Report right away
- Wheezing or shortness of breath (bronchospasm)
- Heart rate below the ordered parameter
- Signs of heart failure
Nursing considerations for Propranolol
- Avoid in asthma and use with great caution in COPD: blocking beta-2 receptors can cause bronchospasm.
- Check the apical pulse and blood pressure before each dose.
- Monitor blood glucose in diabetes: it masks the warning signs of hypoglycemia and can prolong it.
Patient teaching
- Never stop suddenly; the dose is tapered.
- Report wheezing or trouble breathing right away.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Beta blockers practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Propranolol belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A patient's apical pulse is 52 before scheduled metoprolol. What should the nurse do first?
Show answer
Answer C: Hold the dose and notify the prescriber per the ordered parameters A heart rate below the ordered parameter (often 60) is a reason to hold a beta blocker and notify the prescriber. Never change a dose on your own.
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Which patient condition makes propranolol the most concerning choice?
Show answer
Answer B: Asthma Propranolol is nonselective and blocks beta-2 receptors in the lungs, which can cause bronchospasm in a patient with asthma.
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A patient with type 1 diabetes starts a beta blocker. Which teaching point is most important?
Show answer
Answer D: Tremor and fast heartbeat may not appear when blood sugar is low Beta blockade masks the adrenergic warning signs of hypoglycemia, such as tachycardia and tremor. Sweating usually persists.
Frequently asked questions
What is Propranolol used for?
Hypertension; Angina; Migraine prevention; Essential tremor.
What drug class is Propranolol?
Propranolol belongs to the class beta blockers. Nonselective beta blocker: blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart and beta-2 receptors in the lungs and blood vessels.
What are the nursing considerations for Propranolol?
Avoid in asthma and use with great caution in COPD: blocking beta-2 receptors can cause bronchospasm. Check the apical pulse and blood pressure before each dose.
What should patients report while taking Propranolol?
wheezing or shortness of breath (bronchospasm); heart rate below the ordered parameter; signs of heart failure.
What is the antidote for Propranolol?
Glucagon is used for beta-blocker overdose.