Beta-blocker (heart and blood pressure medicine)
Brand of Propranolol Hydrochloride
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Propranolol is a beta-blocker medicine that works by slowing down your heart rate and reducing the force of your heartbeat, which helps lower blood pressure and reduce strain on your heart.
Blocks beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the heart and blood vessels, reducing heart rate, myocardial contractility, and blood pressure whilst decreasing cardiac oxygen demand. Also depresses central nervous system activity, reducing anxiety and tremor, and decreases renin release from the kidneys, contributing to antihypertensive effects.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For high blood pressure, the usual starting dose is one 40 mg tablet taken 2 to 3 times daily. Your doctor may gradually increase this to 80 mg two or three times daily depending on how your body responds. Take the tablets with or after food to help your body absorb the medicine better. Swallow with a full glass of water. Do not suddenly stop taking propranolol without your doctor's guidance — stopping abruptly can be dangerous.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for it. If you miss doses often, set a phone alarm to remind you.
Only buy propranolol from licensed pharmacies — brands like Eden Propranolol, Festpropra, or Timec Propranolol are commonly available in Nigeria. Never stop taking this medicine suddenly on your own as this can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure or trigger chest pain — always let your doctor reduce the dose gradually. Do not share your propranolol with someone else even if they have similar symptoms, as the wrong dose can be very harmful.
Avoid drinking alcohol while on propranolol as it can make your blood pressure drop too low and increase dizziness. Be careful if you are taking diabetes medicines like insulin or glibenclamide because propranolol can hide the warning signs of low blood sugar (like fast heartbeat and shaking). Do not take propranolol together with other blood pressure or heart medicines like verapamil or nifedipine without your doctor's knowledge as the combination can dangerously slow your heart.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Propranolol with your other drugs?
Propranolol is not considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it can affect the baby — do not take it without consulting your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot so avoid keeping it near windows or in your car. Keep the tablets in their original container and away from moisture. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Genuine packaging for Eden Propranolol Hydrochloride 40 mg
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NAFDAC Number
B4-9819
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