Hi guy,
So after experiencing a panic attack last night and taking 2mg diazepam that didn't calm me down, I called my doctors who are going to prescribe me propranolol and start to wean me down off sertraline to try a different ssri.....what are people's experiences with propranolol please? I'm so nervous about taking it thanks all x
I've taken propranolol once but had to change over to another medication in the beta blocker class known as atenolol. The only difference is propranolol goes after beta receptors in the body and atenolol goes after only cardiovascular beta receptors (propranolol can cause asthma to come on or worsen in those with respiratory issues). I read that this class of medication was good for anxiety, but I wasn't sure how to feel. First, I felt fairly relaxed taking it. It will reduce your pulse and blood pressure as that's a primary use of the medicine. So, if you have a racing heart, this shouldn't be as noticeable. I did still feel that nervous energy that anxiety generates, but I felt like I could control or rationalize/cope with it.
The primary concerns are this...be careful if you take this on a regular basis. You cannot cold turkey beta blockers if they are built up in your system. Ending using them (meaning taking it daily for awhile) can cause your blood pressure/pulse to spike. If you take it for anxiety at the moment, similar to a benzo, I would just confirm with your doctor or pharmacist that it's okay to use it as such. Otherwise, you will need to ween. The other concern with these medications is orthostatic hypotension. This is when your blood pressure plummets when you stand up. You will be very dizzy and lightheaded if it happens...often needing to sit back down. Relax and sit back down for a moment. This isn't a huge deal if you take your time standing up and allowing your body a moment to adjust. Otherwise, a minor feeling you might experience is cold limbs from the difference in blood pressure. My feet and hands both felt like ice cubes for a bit. You may feel a bit tired or somewhat dizzy at first.
All of that said, I think it's a great medication for anxiety symptoms. It will calm you down physically speaking. If you have issues with the increased heart rate making your anxiety worse during an attack, this is great. It isn't mentioned much in public, but it turns out those with stage fright often turn to propranolol for performance anxiety. As my side effects were worse when I took the entire dose at once for the day, I found I could split the pill in half giving me the same benefits with lesser side effects. Something worth trying out. I'd say give it a chance as your doctor is going to one of the alternatives for anxiety. The single dose of propranolol actually made me feel fairly good. Again, major caution if you have asthma or any sort of lung disorder...you'll need to ask for a cardioselective beta only. Otherwise, I hope it works wonders for you.
I’ve been on propranolol for years and I take x3 a day.its great and really calms down a racing heart x
Hi.
Iv been taking propranolol for years for my anxiety, I’m on 40mg 3x a day and it helps me,
I was scared about taking them too but there’s nothing to be scared off, good luck and hope this tablet is for you.
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