Propranolol is a beta-blocker medication.
However, it is sometimes also used off-label to reduce the physical symptoms of performance anxiety and stage fright.
How long propranolol lasts will depend on its dosage form.
Getty Images / cometary
Getty Images / cometary
What Is Propranolol?
Propranololbelongs to the medication group called beta blockers.
It is a prescription medication taken by mouth.
It is available under the brand name Inderal LA in an extended-release (ER) formulation.
It is also available generically in its immediate-release form.
However, propranolol is also sometimes prescribed off-label for performanceanxietyand stage fright symptoms.
Propranolol blocks stress hormones such as adrenaline and other hormones on the body’s beta receptors.
In other words, it works by blocking thefight or flightresponse.
How Long Does It Take Propranolol to Work for Anxiety?
Propranolol can be taken before a situation that could cause performance anxiety or stage fright.
Its anxiety-reducing effects are noticeable within one to two hours after taking it.
How Long Do the Effects of Propranolol Last?
Propranolol’s effects can vary depending on the preparation and what it is used for.
Immediate and extended-release formulations are available.
For performance anxiety, propranolol should be taken about 60 minutes (one hour) before the situation occurs.
What Are the Side Effects of Propranolol?
Some people experience little or no side effects.
Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you have a medical emergency.
Anxiety is a mental health condition that can affect your ability to live a happy, productive life.
Propranolol can help control physical symptoms of anxiety but it does not treat the underlying cause of the anxiety.
Talk to your healthcare provider if your treatment does not control your symptoms.
The proper treatment is essential for overall mental well-being.
you’re free to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the right medication for you.
Summary
Propranolol is a prescription beta-blocker medication that can help with performance anxiety.
It works by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which can make you feel scared or nervous.
It mainly helps with physical symptoms like a fast heart rate.
Several nonmedication options are also available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Propranolol is a bang out of drug also called a beta blocker.
There areseveral beta blockers available.
Some common examples are Lopressor (metoprolol) and Tenormin (atenolol).
However, unlike propranolol, these medications are not typically used for anxiety.
Taking your dose with a high-protein meal may increase the bioavailability of propranolol.
However, this will not affect how long it takes for the drug to take effect.
The author would like to recognize and thank Norma Ponce, PharmD for contributing to this article.
2022;23(17):10099. doi:10.3390/ijms231710099.
Mishriki AA, Weidler DJ.Long-acting propranolol (Inderal LA): pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and therapeutic use.Pharmacotherapy.
1983;3(6):334-41. doi:10.1002/j.1875-9114
DailyMed.Label: Inderal LA- propranolol hydrochloride capsule, extended release.
DailyMed.Label: Propranolol hydrochloride tablet.
Tyrer P.Current status of beta-blocking drugs in the treatment of anxiety disorders.Drugs.
1988;36(6):773-783. doi:10.2165/00003495-198836060-00006
American Psychological Association.What is cognitive behavioral therapy?
2017;59(Suppl 1):S67-S73.
1981;30(6):790-795. doi:10.1038/clpt.1981.239
