Propranolol Flashcards

Study Notes

Propranolol Overview

Propranolol is a non-selective beta-adrenergic antagonist, impacting both heart and circulation.
Generic name: propranolol; brand names include Hemangeol, Inderal LA, Inderal XL, InnoPran XL, and Inderal.

Classification

Therapeutic classifications include antianginals, antiarrhythmics (Class II), antihypertensives, and vascular headache suppressants.
Pharmacologic classification is a beta blocker.

Pregnancy Category

Classified as Category C, indicating potential risk.

Uses and Indications

Used to treat tremors, angina (chest pain), hypertension (high blood pressure), heart rhythm disorders, and prevent heart attacks.
Also indicated for reducing the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.
Specific use in infants (at least 5 weeks old) for treating infantile hemangiomas, which are benign vascular tumors.

Mechanism of Action

Blocks beta1 (myocardial) and beta2 (vascular, pulmonary, and uterine) adrenergic receptors.
Therapeutic effects include reduced heart rate and blood pressure, suppression of arrhythmias, and prevention of myocardial infarction (MI).

Important Information

Not to be used if the patient has asthma, severe bradycardia, or serious heart conditions such as sick sinus syndrome or AV block (unless equipped with a pacemaker).
Hemangeol oral liquid is contraindicated for infants weighing less than 4.5 pounds.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, decreased libido, impotence, insomnia, and fatigue.

Pharmacokinetics

Well absorbed but undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism.
Moderate penetration into the central nervous system; crosses the placenta and enters breast milk.
Protein binding is approximately 93%, with metabolism primarily occurring in the liver, mainly via the CYP2D6 isoenzyme.
May lead to significantly higher plasma concentrations in approximately 7% of the population due to genetic polymorphism affecting CYP2D6.

Time/Action Profile

Oral administration onset: 30 minutes; peak: 60-90 minutes; duration: 6-12 hours.
Extended-release oral: unknown onset; peak at 6 hours; duration of 24 hours.
Intravenous onset: immediate; peak at 1 minute; duration: 4-6 hours.

Contraindications and Precautions

Contraindicated in cases of uncompensated heart failure, pulmonary edema, and cardiogenic shock.
Requires cautious use in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, pulmonary disease (including asthma), diabetes, thyrotoxicosis, and a history of severe allergic reactions.
Crosses the placenta, potentially affecting fetal/neonatal heart rate, blood pressure, glucose levels, and respiratory function.

Description

Test your knowledge on Propranolol with these flashcards. This quiz covers definitions, classifications, and important medication details such as pregnancy category. Perfect for students or healthcare professionals looking to strengthen their understanding of this beta blocker.