Propranolol - Precautions and Contraindications

Precautions and Contraindications

Propranolol should be used with caution in patients with:

• Diabetes mellitus or hyperthyroidism, since signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia may be masked.
• Peripheral vascular disease and Raynaud's syndrome, which may be exacerbated
• Phaeochromocytoma, as hypertension may be aggravated without prior alpha blocker therapy
• Myasthenia gravis, may be worsened
• Other drugs with bradycardic effects

Propranolol is contraindicated in patients with:

• Reversible airways disease, particularly asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Bradycardia (<60 beats/minute)
• Sick sinus syndrome
• Atrioventricular block (second or third degree)
• Shock
• Severe hypotension
• Cocaine toxicity
• Peripheral Vascular Disease