Propranolol: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Cardiac Arrhythmias Intravenous administration is usually reserved for life-threatening arrhythmias or those occurring under anesthesia.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label e586996d…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Cardiac Arrhythmias Intravenous administration is usually reserved for life-threatening arrhythmias or those occurring under anesthesia. 1. Supraventricular arrhythmias Intravenous propranolol is indicated for the short-term treatment of supraventricular tachycardia, including Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and thyrotoxicosis, to decrease ventricular rate. Use in patients with atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation should be reserved for arrythmias unresponsive to standard therapy or when more prolonged control is required. Reversion to normal sinus rhythm has occasionally been observed, predominantly in patients with sinus or atrial tachycardia. 2. Ventricular tachycardias With the exception of those induced by catecholamines or digitalis, propranolol is not the drug of first choice. In critical situations when cardioversion techniques or other drugs are not indicated or are not effective, propranolol may be considered. If, after consideration of the risks involved, propranolol is used, it should be given intravenously in low dosage and very slowly, as the failing heart requires some sympathetic drive for maintenance of myocardial tone (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ). Some patient…
Conditions associated with Propranolol in labeling
Atrial Fibrillation
An irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart co...
Depression
A common but serious mood disorder causing persistent sadness, loss of interest, and changes in sleep, appetit...
Hyperthyroidism
A condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up metabolism and causing w...
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Propranolol used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Propranolol?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Propranolol require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Propranolol.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.