Propranolol belongs to a class of drugs called beta blockers. Beta blockers reduce blood pressure and treat a variety of heart problems. They also help to prevent migraines and reduce tremors.

Propranolol reduces the effect of anxiety on our bodies by slowing heart rates and reducing shaking and sweating. It can also ease our thoughts, helping us to think more clearly.

Propranolol should be taken after food, 1-2 hours before you need it, for example, before an exam or situation that triggers anxiety.
Depending on your prescription, we recommend:

• Take one or two 10mg tablets between 1-2 hours before the situation. Not to be repeated within 24 hours
  OR
• Take one 40mg tablet between 1-2 hours before the situation. Not to be repeated within 24 hours

Propranolol remains effective for 3-4 hours after it’s taken.

Anxiety is a feeling of unease or worry about something with an uncertain outcome. It can make our pulses race and our hearts pound in our chest. We can flush, feel sweaty, shaky and even short of breath. It can also cause changes in our behaviour, such as avoiding situations and potential triggers, or becoming overly cautious.

Situational anxiety is anxiety that only occurs in certain situations, for example, during tests, important presentations, social events or when travelling. Chronic anxiety, on the other hand, is anxiety that feels constant, regardless of the situation you're in.

At MedExpress, we prescribe propranolol for situational anxiety only. 

If you need advice on chronic anxiety, stress and strategies to cope, please visit the NHS advice page.

Common side effects of propranolol include:

• Dizziness, low blood pressure and fatigue. 
• Cold hands and feet, caused by reduced blood flow. 
• Sleep disturbances and nightmares.

In uncommon cases, it can also cause stomach upset, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.

If you suffer from psoriasis, it can also make this condition worse.

You can find more information on side effects in our patient information leaflet.

MedExpress supplies propranolol for the short term relief of situational anxiety only. We do not prescribe for chronic anxiety. 

Do not use propranolol if you have: 

• Asthma or other chest conditions
• Myasthenia gravis
• Lactose intolerance 

If any of the below apply to you, you should only take beta blockers if prescribed by your GP.

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have high blood pressure, diabetes, poor circulation or heart problems.

Please note, propranolol can also exacerbate psoriasis.