Beta Blocker withdrawal?

[momof3Az]

6 days ago my Cardiologist stopped my BB (propranolol ER 80mg) due to my BP running in the low 100's/60's and HR in the low 60's. I am in my 30's and was on the med for about 18 months due to elevated BP, anxiety. Cardizem was added about 6 months ago (which I am still taking). I recently lost 35lbs and the cardiologist felt it was best to stop the BB cold turkey.

The first 2 days off BB I felt dizzy, anxious, and overall off. BP started to go up (118/70's) and HR in the 80's. Now 6 days later my BP is in the high 120's/70's and my HR is 90's at rest. I feel awful, like worse than I have in months! Headache, tired, nauseous, random palpitations, out of breath, can't think straight, ect. Getting up to walk short distance or talking for longer than a few minutes sends my HR into the 110-120's. Is this all part of the withdrawal from the BB? Will things get better as the med gets out of my system? On the verge of a panic attack and heading to the hospital. Just dont want to over shoot if it's just part of the process. Has anyone else had similar issues?

[momof3Az]

Thank you! A little digging in this group has helped easy my mind. My Dr suggested a slight increase in both BP and HR but made it seem as no big deal. I wasn't expecting to have withdrawal symptoms and overall feel so awful. It has been a drastic change for me. A week ago I was exercising daily, felt great, and able to play with my kids. Today I cant seem to get off the couch without my HR shooting through the roof. Making dinner last night was a nightmare. HR in the 130's and took over an hour of rest to get it down. I will try to stay calm and keep it simple through the weekend. Hopefully by next week I will be somewhat back to normal!?

[FacelessOnes in reply to momof3Az]

How are you now? I’m going through the same thing and it’s been 5 days

[Heythrop51]

It seems puzzling to me as the usual recommendation is to reduce the dose over a period of time, e.g. halve the dose every few weeks. I may be wrong but I am sure I have read it in here.

[momof3Az in reply to Heythrop51]

Agreed, that's what I read too. Cardiologist assured me my Cardizem (Calcium Blocker) would have me covered. I called on day 2 with my symptoms pretty freaked out and the nurse assured me that their Drs stop it cold turkey all the time without issue and it would be fine. Either way can't cut it in half as it is an extended release capsule.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

The Accord PIL (Patient Information Leaflet) says Propranolol should be withdrawn gradually over 10 - 14 days. The CCI (Calcium Channel Inhibitor) will cover the blood pressure but not the other symptoms Beta Blockers handle, heart rate and anxiety. If you are still struggling on Tuesday ring your GP again. A short term supply of standard tablets might help.

[Celtic]

Some years ago, I was advised to discontinue the beta blockerAtenolol. I had an almost immediate hike in blood pressure and felt quite poorly. A pharmacist then told me that no- one should ever stop a beta blocker cold- turkey but should slowly taper off it, suggesting taking a week for every year of being on it, so in your case around a 10 day taper. I do hope that you soon start to feel better but meanwhile drink plenty of water to flush your system and, if symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek GP advice. Good luck.

[MEEE2]

Hello momof3Az,

How are your BB withdrawal symptoms going?

[FacelessOnes in reply to MEEE2]

How about you? How are you doing?