Pharmacology 2100 Unit 4 & 5: Propranolol

Study Notes

Propranolol (Inderal) Overview

Class: Nonselective Beta Adrenergic Blocker, used in various cardiovascular conditions.

Dosage

Oral: 40 mg twice daily, can increase to 480 mg/day; sustained-release options at 80 mg or 120 mg once daily.
IV Use: Administered for severe dysrhythmias; can be given undiluted or diluted in D5W.

Pharmacokinetics

High gastrointestinal absorption but significant first-pass metabolism.
90% protein-bound; primarily hepatically metabolized with a half-life of 3-5 hours.
Metabolites (90-95%) excreted in urine.

Pharmacodynamics

Oral administration onset: 1-2 hours, peak effect within 1 to 1.5 hours.
Sustained-release formulation peaks at 6 hours.
IV administration provides immediate onset, peak effect at 5 minutes.

Therapeutic Effects

Effectively manages hypertension, cardiac dysrhythmias, angina, and provides protection post-myocardial infarction (MI).

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bradycardia, confusion, fatigue, vertigo, dry mouth.
Serious: Laryngospasm, bronchospasm, AV block, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, impotence.

Contraindications and Interactions

Contraindicated in: Congestive heart failure (CHF), secondary heart block, sinus bradycardia, cardiogenic shock, bronchial asthma, COPD.
Drug interactions: Antacids reduce absorption; increased hypotension with phenothiazines and diuretics; beta-adrenergic agonists may block propranolol's effects; atropine and tricyclic antidepressants counteract bradycardia effects.

Nursing Considerations

Monitor vital signs; withhold medication if systolic blood pressure is below 100 mmHg or if pulse is too low.

Description

Test your knowledge on Propranolol (Inderal) with this quiz covering its drug classification, dosage details, and basic pharmacokinetics. Perfect for students of Pharmacology 2100 looking to reinforce their understanding of this essential beta blocker.