Propranolol is often prescribed to treat high blood pressure, as well as to prevent a heart attack, chest pain or abnormal heart rhythms. Depending on which form of propranolol you have been prescribed you will have to take it once a day or several times a day. If you are taking the extended-release tablet it is supposed to be taken once a day.

If you have to take the immediate-acting medicine it should be taken from two to four times a day. Continue taking this medicine for as long as your health care provider recommended, as stopping suddenly may cause chest pain or even a heart attack.

If you did not exactly understand the instructions provided by your doctor ask him to explain again or consult your pharmacist for more information. As with any other drugs it’s very important that you understand exactly how to take propranolol and what you are not supposed to do during the treatment.

Taking propranolol and drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing drowsiness. Unless you know for sure that propranolol does not cause drowsiness in you, do not drink and operate any machinery as you will be putting other people’s lives at risk.

Trouble falling asleep, dizziness, diarrhea, rash and unusual tiredness are a few side effects that you may experience while your body is adjusting to the dosage prescribed. If you think the dosage you have been recommended is too high or to low do not alter it without previously talking to your doctor as this is fraught with serious health consequences and new side effects.

When you think you have taken too much of propranolol and have any of the following symptoms seek emergency medical assistance: fainting, uneven heartbeat, weakness, and dizziness.