Generic Propranolol

Generic propranolol is available in several strengths and is sold under the name Propranolol tablets. The drug is part of a class of medicines called beta-adrenergic blocking agents. By blocking beta receptors, generic propranolol, like its brand name counterpart, Inderal, decreases heart rate and blood pressure, as well as the heart's workload, meaning that the heart requires less blood and oxygen to work properly.

Propranolol Hydrochloride

Generic Propranolol: An Overview

Propranolol hydrochloride (Inderal^®) is a prescription medication that is used for:

Lowering blood pressure (hypertension)
The relief of angina symptoms
Migraine prevention
The control of atrial fibrillation
Improving the chances of survival after a heart attack.

Propranolol may also be used for other reasons, such as to treat people with hypertrophic subaortic stenosis, an essential tremor, or pheochromocytoma.

Propranolol is part of a class of medicines called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, or beta blockers for short. As the name suggests, propranolol helps to block beta receptors, which are receptors in the body that bind stress hormones, such as adrenaline (epinephrine). These receptors are found in many places throughout the body, including the heart and blood vessels. By blocking beta receptors, propranolol causes the reverse effect of the stress hormones. It decreases heart rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures, as well as the heart's workload, meaning that the heart requires less blood and oxygen to work properly.

Propranolol was originally manufactured by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. It has since come off-patent, making it available as a generic. In fact, brand-name Inderal is no longer being manufactured (as is common with older medications with expired patents).

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