Drug Name

Innopran XL (Propranolol)

Drug Uses

Innopran XL belongs to a group of drugs called beta-blockers that are used for hypertension (high blood pressure), heart rhythm disorders, tremors and angina.

How it is taken

Innopran can be taken by mouth once daily at bedtime. It is extremely crucial that you maintain a regular schedule for taking the medication and take it at the same time each day. The medicine will prove to be useless if you take it only when headaches or migraines occur.

The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Innopran XL belongs to a group of drugs called Beta-blockers that affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins). This helps reduce the blood pressure and angina which is usually caused due to clogged arteries near the heart.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Innopran XL then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, certain types of irregular heartbeats (e.g., sinus bradycardia, second or third degree atrioventricular block), cardiogenic shock, severe heart failure (overt or decompensated type), asthma, a certain type of tumor (untreated pheochromocytoma), heart failure (treated, compensated type), other breathing problems (e.g., chronic obstructive lung disease), diabetes, overactive thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism), kidney disease, liver disease, blood circulation problems (e.g., Raynaud's disease), skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis), mental/mood disorders (e.g., depression), certain muscle disease (myasthenia gravis).

If you have a chest pain (angina) or heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, high blood pressure), do not stop using this drug without first consulting your doctor. Your condition may worsen if it is stopped suddenly. Your dosage must gradually decrease according to your doctor's instructions.

When gradually stopping this medication, it is recommended that you temporarily limit physical activity to decrease strain on the heart.

If you develop worsening chest pain, tightness or pressure in the chest, chest pain spreading to the jaw/neck/arm, sweating, trouble breathing or fast/irregular heartbeat, then seek immediate medical attention.

Innopran XL may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Innopran XL and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with Innopran XL and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Innopran XL is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Innopran XL may affect your blood sugar level and may make you feel confused, drowsy, or sweaty. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.

Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Innopran XL before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, tiredness, diarrhea, unusual dreams, trouble sleeping, or vision problems. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat or fever, rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing, symptoms of a very slow heartbeat (e.g., persistent dizziness, fainting, unusual fatigue), bluish discoloration of the fingers and toes, numbness/tingling/swelling of the hands or feet, decreased sexual ability, reversible hair loss, mental/mood changes, trouble breathing, cough, unexplained or sudden weight gain, increased thirst, increased urination.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.

If you notice other effects, not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

More Information

Do not share this medication with others. Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes may increase the effectiveness of this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you. Have your blood pressure and pulse checked regularly while taking this medication. It may be best to learn how to monitor your own blood pressure and pulse. Discuss this with your doctor.