Quick Summary:
- Propranolol withdrawal can cause physical and psychological symptoms, especially if the medication is stopped suddenly.
- Stopping propranolol “cold turkey” is not recommended due to the risk of chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and blood pressure changes.
- Common withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, sweating, shaking, sleep disturbances, and increased heart rate.
- Most people feel better within a few days, though symptoms can last up to 2 weeks or longer in some cases.
- Doctors typically recommend tapering off propranolol over 2–4 weeks to reduce withdrawal effects.
- Always consult a healthcare provider before stopping propranolol to ensure it’s done safely.
Propranolol is a beta blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and some mental health conditions like anxiety. When stopping any kind of drug, it’s critical to understand the possible withdrawal side effects you might experience. You may have searched for Propranolol online to answer some questions and found that this medication is no exception.
If you’re considering coming off this drug, read on for all the information you need about Propranolol withdrawal symptoms and Propranolol withdrawal syndrome. We’re looking at everything you need to know, from what symptoms you might experience to what a Propranolol withdrawal timeline looks like. It is possible to stop taking Propranolol safely — learn how here.
Can Propranolol Be Stopped Cold Turkey?
It’s not recommended to stop taking Propranolol suddenly or cold turkey, as this can cause side effects, including irregular heartbeat and chest pain. Instead, your doctor will likely advise you to gradually reduce your dose over time before altogether discontinuing use.
“Propranolol should not be stopped cold turkey. Please always discuss with your doctor if you plan not to take this medicine.”
– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir
What Are the Symptoms of Propranolol Withdrawal?
Propranolol withdrawal symptoms are shown to be generally mild for most people, especially when medication is gradually tapered. Symptoms may include physical and emotional effects as the body adjusts to lower levels of the medication.
Common propranolol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety or heightened nervousness
- Sweating
- Shaking or tremors
- Lightheadedness
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Headaches or migraines
Less common but more serious symptoms may include:
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Muscle cramps
Propranolol withdrawal symptoms are more commonly experienced if you were on a higher dose or took the medication for an extended period. Low doses of Propranolol are less likely to cause severe withdrawal symptoms.
How Long Does Propranolol Withdrawal Last?
Propranolol withdrawal duration varies, but most people begin feeling better within a few days after their final dose, especially when the medication is tapered gradually. In some cases, mild withdrawal symptoms can last up to 1–2 weeks, depending on dosage, length of use, and individual body chemistry.
Most tapering schedules last 2–4 weeks, allowing the body time to adjust as propranolol levels are slowly reduced. After the final dose, the medication typically takes 1–2 days to fully leave the body, though lingering symptoms may persist briefly as the nervous system readjusts.
Propranolol withdrawal timeline
While timelines vary from person to person, a typical propranolol withdrawal process may look like this:
- Weeks 1–4: Gradual dose reduction under medical supervision
- Final dose: Propranolol clears from the body within 1–2 days
- Days to 2 weeks after stopping: Temporary withdrawal symptoms may occur and gradually improve
Your doctor will help create a tapering schedule based on your dosage, how long you’ve been taking propranolol, and the condition being treated. Always follow your provider’s instructions closely and contact them if you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or significant blood pressure changes.
“Depending on the combination of medication, the duration of the medication’s treatment dose must be considered before tapering off Propranolol. Make sure you discuss this with your doctor before discontinuing the medication.”
– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Muhammad Munir
How to Cope with a Propranolol Withdrawal
Coping with Propranolol withdrawals can be challenging, so avoiding triggers and seeking support can be key. You might find you do better if you limit or eliminate your caffeine or alcohol intake, which can exacerbate existing physical symptoms and anxiety symptoms in some people. Remaining consistent throughout treatment and seeking support from friends and family can also help. It is also important to know when to see a psychiatrist.
Take care of yourself during this process.
- Eat nutritionally balanced meals
- Engage in physical activity regularly
- Ensure adequate restorative sleep cycles
- Deal with stress effectively by doing yoga or meditating
- Use deep breathing techniques to calm down
- Address any mental health conditions with a skilled provider if needed
Selfcare should always be part of your strategy when you’re changing any medication. If you find you need more help than you’re getting, consider therapy. Talk therapy sessions online or via phone may provide extra comfort while navigating these challenging times — don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help.
How Do You Safely Stop Taking Propranolol?
If you decide that coming off Propranolol is the right choice—either due to the side effects like Propranolol weight gain, or because it’s not working—please consult your healthcare provider first. They will guide you through each step safely and effectively regarding dosage tapering, lifestyle modifications, and other strategies to help you safely stop Propranolol.
Furthermore, once you have decided to come off, always remain vigilant, monitor progress, speak openly about any concerns, seek out additional assistance if required, and celebrate successes — even small ones count.
Talk with a Licensed Psychiatrist
Consulting a mental health professional can be necessary for addressing psychological health issues. Whether you seek assistance with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues, consulting an online psychiatrist at Talkspace can offer the direction and encouragement needed to bring about positive change.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. In addition, they have extensive training in psychotherapy and medications that can help people manage their symptoms and provide medical advice.
When coming off Propranolol, talking with a licensed psychiatrist about any concerns or questions is smart. Remember, it’s best to wean off Propranolol slowly to minimize discomfort and decrease the chance of Propranolol withdrawal symptoms. If done correctly, you should be able to safely transition from taking Propranolol without too many issues.
Sources:
- Rangno RE. Propranolol withdrawal. Archives of Internal Medicine. 1981;141(2):161. doi:10.1001/archinte.1981.00340020023008. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/600703. Accessed March 26, 2023.
Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.
Our goal at Talkspace is to provide the most up-to-date, valuable, and objective information on mental health-related topics in order to help readers make informed decisions.
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