Propranolol

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Oct 13, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Propranolol


Is propranolol a calcium channel blocker?

Propranolol is not a calcium channel blocker. It is a beta blocker. Examples of calcium channel blockers include amlodipine, felodipine, nifedipine, verapamil, diltiazem, and others.



What is the best time to take propranolol?

The best time to take propranolol extended-release (long-acting) formulations, which are prescribed as a once-daily dosing regimen, is at bedtime. This helps to lower the risk of falls due to dizziness caused by propranolol. The best time to take propranolol immediate-release tablets or oral solution prescribed on a 2-4 times daily dosing regimen is taken before meals and at bedtime. This makes it easier to remember to take your doses.



How quickly does propranolol start working?

Propranolol starts working within a few hours of taking a dose. However, it can take several weeks to get the full benefits of this medicine. You may not notice an improvement in your symptoms or blood pressure readings initially, but you should continue taking the medicine.



What happens if you stop propranolol suddenly?

Stopping propranolol suddenly can lead to a spike in blood pressure, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. Also, abruptly discontinuing propranolol therapy can lead to a complication called thyroid storm in people with hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).



Does propranolol stop anxiety?

Propranolol can help to control some of the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as shakiness and sweating. However, this medicine will not treat the underlying cause of anxiety. 



Does propranolol cause weight gain?

Propranolol and other beta blockers can cause weight gain as a side effect, especially in the first few months of treatment. This is not something to worry about. However, you should call your healthcare provider without delay if you have heart failure and notice a rapid weight gain of 2-3 pounds in a day or more than 5 pounds in a week.



What is the price of propranolol without insurance?

Without insurance, propranolol can be as high as $41.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $10.62 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of propranolol with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on propranolol—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for propranolol. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.