Medications · FAQ
What side effects can propranolol cause when used for performance anxiety?
Short answer
Propranolol can cause tiredness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or stomach upset. It can also slow your heart rate and lower blood pressure. Seek urgent care for fainting, trouble breathing, chest pain, or a very slow heartbeat with weakness. Tell your physician about side effects before changing your dose.
Possible side effects include tiredness, dizziness, lightheadedness, stomach upset, and sleep changes. Some people also notice cold hands or feet. Your dose, other medicines, and health conditions can affect which side effects you experience.
Because propranolol slows the heart and lowers blood pressure, standing up quickly may make you feel faint. Rise slowly from sitting or lying down. Do not drive, climb, or use machinery if you feel dizzy or less alert. Alcohol can increase dizziness and may lower blood pressure further.
Get urgent medical help for fainting, new chest pain, serious breathing trouble, or a very slow heartbeat with weakness or confusion. Call 911 for severe symptoms. Swelling of the face or throat may signal a serious allergic reaction and also requires emergency care.
For mild but bothersome symptoms, contact your physician or pharmacist. Do not take extra medicine or adjust the dose yourself. If you take propranolol regularly, ask for advice before stopping it, since suddenly stopping regular use can be dangerous.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.
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