Inderalla

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Inderalla

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Inderalla

Properties Description
Active ingredient Propranolol Hydrochloride
Form Tablet, Capsule, Oral Solution, Injection
Pharmacological class Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agent (Beta-blocker)
General purpose Cardiovascular system stability and pressure modulation
Origin Synthetic compound

Inderalla is a medicinal product containing the active ingredient Propranolol Hydrochloride, a compound whose efficacy is clinically recognized for its established role in cardiovascular management. It is classified within the group of beta-adrenergic blocking agents, commonly known as beta-blockers. The substance is a synthetic compound, established as a first-generation beta-blocker, distinguishing it by its broad spectrum of action. This is a prescription-only medication designed as a single-ingredient product.


What Type of Medicine is Inderalla?

Inderalla is classified as a non-cardioselective Beta-adrenergic blocking agent, a type of medicine that reduces the effect of adrenaline and other stress hormones on the heart and other organ systems. This pharmacological class works by binding to both beta1 receptors (predominantly in the heart) and beta2 receptors (found in areas like the lungs and blood vessels). The non-selective property is a key feature, providing systemic effects used to manage a range of conditions where broad control over sympathetic nervous system activity is required.


Composition and Available Forms

The core component is Propranolol Hydrochloride, a versatile compound administered via the oral and intravenous route of administration. The drug is consistently manufactured in multiple dosage form(s) to ensure patient flexibility, including the standard Tablet form, various Capsule preparations (such as the extended-release capsule designed for sustained release), and as an Oral solution. The diversity in forms allows for tailored management, with the liquid formulation often used for patients requiring precise, small dose adjustments.


General Purpose and High-Level Action

The general purpose of the beta-blocker Inderalla is to achieve fundamental stability within the cardiovascular system by modulating the body's response to stress and exertion. This is achieved through the Beta-adrenoceptor blockade, resulting in two key physiological effects: a reduced heart rate and decreased cardiac output. This fundamental high-level action provides the basis for the drug's reliable effect in lowering blood pressure and establishing a more regular, controlled heart rhythm.

Regulatory References

  1. Propranolol (Cardiovascular): MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Inderalla?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Inderalla

Official regulatory documents define the safety profile of Inderalla (propranolol) based on adverse reactions reported in clinical trials and post-marketing experience, alongside specific safety warnings.

Key Adverse Reactions and Contraindications

Classification Examples of Documented Reactions/Conditions
Common Adverse Reactions Fatigue, dizziness, constipation, nausea, vomiting
Serious Adverse Reactions Severe bradycardia, cardiac failure, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, severe allergic (anaphylactic) reactions, exacerbation of thyrotoxicosis
System-Organ Classes Cardiac, Nervous System, Gastrointestinal, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue, Respiratory
Absolute Contraindications Bronchial asthma, cardiogenic shock, sinus bradycardia, heart block greater than first-degree (unless a permanent pacemaker is present), decompensated heart failure

Exposure-Related Safety and Population Warnings

Government regulatory labels include a major safety warning regarding the risk of abruptly stopping Inderalla. Sudden discontinuation of chronic therapy, particularly in individuals with pre-existing ischemic heart disease, has been associated with exacerbations of angina pectoris, and in some cases, myocardial infarction. The dosage must be gradually reduced when discontinuing treatment.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations: The medicine may mask certain symptoms of acute hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which requires caution for individuals with diabetes mellitus. Beta-blockade may also mask signs of hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis). The drug is also noted to reduce the effectiveness of epinephrine used to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose with Inderalla (Propranolol Hydrochloride) is classified by regulatory authorities as a potentially severe or life-threatening event requiring immediate medical intervention. The documented clinical signs arise from profound cardiovascular depression and central nervous system (CNS) compromise.


Documented Manifestations and Severe Outcomes

An overdose may present with signs including profound bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), and serious heart conduction disturbances such as atrioventricular block. Other symptoms explicitly listed in regulatory labeling are bronchospasm, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), confusion, and hallucinations. Severe overdose can lead to life-threatening outcomes such as cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, convulsions (seizures), and coma. In children, hypoglycemia is a common and serious manifestation.


Emergency Actions and Management

If an overdose is suspected, official guidance mandates that an individual must seek immediate medical attention and contact emergency services without delay. Treatment with the medication must be stopped. The regulatory documents note that no specific antidote is known. Management in a hospital setting includes general symptomatic and supportive measures, continuous monitoring of vital signs and an ECG, and the administration of activated charcoal or other gastrointestinal decontamination procedures.

Therapeutic Uses of Inderalla

Inderalla (Propranolol) is commonly used in clinical settings to provide symptomatic support across several key therapeutic areas and contributes to maintaining physiological balance. The medication is applied across various domains where such symptomatic support is required.

The therapeutic scope covers conditions marked by increased physiological stress, including hypertension (high blood pressure), stable angina, irregular heart rhythms, migraine prophylaxis, and essential tremor.

Clinical Benefit and Symptom Management

Inderalla is generally used for managing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain, such as rapid palpitations and effort-related chest pain. It is relevant for managing recurrent episodes that present with significant symptomatic burden, such as migraine headaches and the involuntary shaking of essential tremor.

“It is commonly used to help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations across cardiovascular and neurological domains.”

This application supports the patient in maintaining functional stability and may assist with maintaining a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable. It is also applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, such as providing supportive relief during phases of increased distress related to thyrotoxicosis or for managing specific infantile vascular growths.


Quick Fact: Support for Involuntary Shaking Inderalla plays a role in managing symptoms of Essential Tremor, which can interfere with daily functioning, and helps address symptom clusters that may become intense.


Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label):

  • Adults with established indications (e.g., hypertension, angina, essential tremor).
  • Infants aged 5 weeks to 5 months (corrected age) for proliferating infantile hemangioma, provided they meet specific heart rate and blood pressure thresholds.

Populations for whom use is contraindicated:

  • Patients with Known hypersensitivity to the drug or components, Cardiogenic shock, or Decompensated heart failure.
  • Patients with Bronchial asthma or a history of bronchospasm.
  • Patients with Sinus bradycardia or greater than first-degree heart block unless a permanent pacemaker is present.
  • Infants less than 5 weeks corrected age or weighing less than 2 kg.

Condition-Specific Eligibility Rules:

  • Use is conditional in patients with Hepatic impairment or Renal impairment, requiring caution when initiating treatment.
  • Patients with Diabetes Mellitus or those in a state of fasting have conditional eligibility due to the risk of severe hypoglycemia.

Pregnancy and Lactation Eligibility Status:

  • Use during pregnancy is conditional upon a benefit-risk assessment. Neonates exposed near delivery must be monitored for physiological effects like bradycardia.
  • The drug is excreted in human milk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Inderalla (Propranolol Hydrochloride) has documented interactions that affect its plasma levels or physiological effects, as stated in official regulatory information.

Contraindicated Combinations and Administration Restrictions

Co-administration with non-dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blockers such as Verapamil and Diltiazem is classified as contraindicated by some regulatory sources due to the severe, additive risk of hypotension and bradycardia. A specific restriction exists for intravenous use: neither Inderalla nor these Calcium Channel Blockers should be administered intravenously within 48 hours of discontinuing the other. The combination with Thioridazine is also officially not recommended.

Metabolic and Exposure Alterations

Inderalla is metabolized by multiple Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (CYP2D6, CYP1A2, CYP2C19). Substances that inhibit these enzymes, such as Fluoxetine or Ciprofloxacin, increase the plasma concentration of Inderalla. Conversely, CYP inducers like Rifampin or smoking (tobacco) decrease plasma levels, potentially leading to a loss of efficacy. Bile Acid Sequestrants (Cholestyramine, Colestipol) also significantly reduce systemic exposure.

Pharmacodynamic and Population Cautions

Digoxin and Clonidine increase the risk of significant bradycardia due to additive effects. If co-administering Clonidine, the beta-blocker must be withdrawn several days before discontinuing Clonidine. For diabetic patients, Inderalla may mask the signs (e.g., tachycardia) of a low blood sugar event. Caution is also noted for patients with hepatic impairment (e.g., decompensated cirrhosis) due to the risk of increased drug effects.

Mechanism of Action

Inderalla is a synthetic, non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist, targeting beta1 and beta2 receptors across multiple systems. The S-(-)-enantiomer mediates the majority of the pharmacologic activity. The molecule functions as a competitive antagonist, specifically occupying beta-adrenergic receptor sites and preventing the binding of endogenous catecholamines, such as norepinephrine and epinephrine. This molecular blockade decreases downstream adenylyl cyclase activity, reducing the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP (cAMP). In myocardial tissue, this cascade attenuates the chronotropic (rate) and inotropic (contractility) responses to sympathetic stimulation, resulting in a reduction in cardiac output. Concurrently, blockade of renal beta1 receptors inhibits the release of renin, modulating the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Central effects, potentially mediated by a glycol metabolite, include diminution of tonic sympathetic nerve outflow from medullary vasomotor centers. System-level consequences involve modulation of peripheral vascular resistance and reduction of heart workload.

Dosage and Administration Information

The use of Inderalla (propranolol hydrochloride) involves adherence to specific instructions to ensure accurate dosing and administration.

Administration and Dosage Consistency

Inderalla is administered via the oral route (immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules, or oral solution) or the intravenous (IV) route for acute use.

  • Oral Dosage Forms: Immediate-Release (IR) tablets are typically taken two to four times daily in divided doses, while Extended-Release (ER/XL) capsules are taken once daily. Established protocols indicate that IR tablets and ER/XL capsules must be swallowed whole and should not be chewed or crushed.
  • Dosing Consistency: The medicine should be taken consistently with respect to meals—either always with food or always on an empty stomach—to help maintain stable drug levels.

Dosing and Procedural Rules

Standard dosing is subject to gradual titration (increase) by a healthcare provider over intervals of several days or weeks to reach the patient's optimal maintenance dose. Adult maintenance dose ranges can vary significantly, such as 120 mg to 240 mg per day for hypertension, depending on the indication and formulation.

Special Procedural Conditions:

Condition Instruction
Discontinuation Abrupt withdrawal must be avoided; the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of 7 to 14 days under medical guidance.
Pediatric Use (Oral Solution) Dosing is weight-based and requires dose readjustment as the child's weight changes. The medicine must be given during or right after a feeding.
Infant Monitoring Following the first dose or any dose increase, clinical monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure is required for at least two hours.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Inderalla

Evidence for Use in Cardiovascular Management

The medicine was studied for conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes, such as post-myocardial infarction follow-up research, and conditions where symptoms may vary in intensity, like high blood pressure (hypertension) and stable chest pain (angina). Researchers relied on large multicenter Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews to evaluate outcomes monitoring physiological strain or stress. These studies monitored endpoints related to all-cause mortality, cardiovascular event rates, and changes in blood pressure.

Trials described measurements of cardiovascular event rates in the observed populations following a heart attack. Trials also reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, documenting measurements of changes in blood pressure and the occurrence of anginal chest pain. This research contributes to the broader evidence landscape in the long-term cardiovascular research domain.

Evidence for Use in Migraine and Essential Tremor

This part will outline the research that explored the medicine's role in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations (migraine) and conditions marked by functional limitations (Essential Tremor). This research focuses on symptomatic outcomes related to physical discomfort and outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level.

Research exploring short-term symptom changes in Migraine Prophylaxis

For the study of recurring migraine headaches, RCTs were conducted in adults with episodic and chronic migraine. Research examined patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort, such as the number of headache days per month and headache intensity. Studies reported measurements of change in the frequency of monthly headaches over defined short-term study intervals.

Research examining temporary physiological imbalance in Essential Tremor

Research evaluated the medicine in randomized studies conducted in adults with Essential Tremor, a condition marked by functional limitations. Studies explored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as functional disability scores and objective measurements of limb tremor severity. Findings suggest patterns in the measured tremor severity and functional ability of the populations observed.

Research in the Pediatric Population (Infantile Hemangioma)

The evidence is based on large, randomized, placebo-controlled trials conducted in infants with proliferating hemangioma. These studies evaluated the medicine in infants aged one to five months. Researchers examined outcomes related to physical discomfort and lesion change, such as the complete or near-complete resolution of the vascular lesion at a specific point in time.

Areas of Research Uncertainty and Study Gaps

Data for certain groups remain insufficient regarding the use in pregnant or breastfeeding populations. Comparative evidence is lacking for direct head-to-head assessment against all modern therapeutic agents across several indications. Additionally, long-term effects are not fully established beyond the initial intervention period for conditions like migraine, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding the duration of treatment needed for infantile hemangioma.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Inderalla (FAQ)

Q: Does Inderalla start working immediately or does it take time?

The time it takes to observe the full therapeutic effect depends on the condition being addressed. For conditions like high blood pressure, the full therapeutic effect may be observed over a period of up to a week, although some initial physiological effects may be present within a few hours of administration.

Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Inderalla usually last?

The duration of the medicine's effect varies depending on the formulation. The immediate-release tablets are associated with dosing frequencies of multiple times per day, as the effects of a single dose last approximately three to four hours. The extended-release forms are designed to provide sustained effects over a full 24-hour period.

Q: Can Inderalla be taken with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Regulatory documents caution about potential interactions with certain over-the-counter medications. Specifically, official drug interaction sections note that Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are common pain relievers, may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of Inderalla.

Q: What happens if Inderalla is taken with alcohol?

Official drug interaction warnings describe that alcohol may increase the concentration of the medicine in the blood. This combination can lead to increased drowsiness and dizziness because of potential additive effects on lowering blood pressure.

Q: Is Inderalla suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Official labeling states that use during pregnancy is conditional. The regulatory framework specifies a conditional use that requires a benefit-risk assessment. Furthermore, the medicine is known to be excreted into human milk.

Q: Is it common to feel tired when first starting Inderalla?

Fatigue, or feeling tired, is listed in official documents as a common adverse reaction that has been reported by patients using the medicine.

Q: What is the difference between immediate-release and extended-release forms of Inderalla?

The main difference is the dosing schedule. The immediate-release tablets are typically taken several times a day, while the extended-release capsules are specially formulated to provide a sustained, continuous release of the medicine over a 24-hour period and are usually taken only once daily.

Q: Can Inderalla be taken alongside medicines for depression?

Regulatory warnings exist regarding potential interactions with certain types of antidepressant medicines, specifically SSRIs. This is because these drugs can affect the liver enzymes that process Inderalla, leading to a possible increase in its concentration in the body.

Q: Does Inderalla have a risk of dependence or addiction?

Inderalla is not classified as a controlled substance by regulatory agencies. Official documents detail that the dosage must be gradually reduced when discontinuing treatment to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Q: Can older adults safely use Inderalla?

Official drug labels state that the optimal dose for older adults should be individually determined based on their clinical response. Caution is noted regarding potential age-related changes in how the body processes the medicine with age.

Q: Is Inderalla considered a blood pressure medicine?

Yes, Inderalla is officially indicated for the control and long-term management of hypertension, which is the clinical term for high blood pressure.

Q: Can Inderalla affect a person's mood or cause mood changes?

Adverse reactions reported in official documents include central nervous system effects. These can manifest as emotional lability, general mood changes, and in some cases, mental depression.

Q: Does taking Inderalla at the same time every day matter?

Official guidelines include a statement regarding consistent timing of administration each day and consistent relation to meals. This consistency helps ensure stable drug concentration in the body, which is important for the intended therapeutic effect.

Q: Does Inderalla interact with herbal supplements?

Regulatory information indicates that caution is needed with substances, including some herbal remedies or supplements, that may affect the liver enzymes responsible for processing the medicine. Changes to these enzymes can alter the concentration of Inderalla in the body.

Q: Can Inderalla affect sleep or cause insomnia?

Disturbances in sleep, including insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) and the occurrence of vivid dreams or nightmares, are listed among the reported side effects in official documents.

Q: Is there a link between Inderalla and hair loss?

Alopecia, which is the clinical term for hair loss, is listed in the official adverse reactions section for the medicine.

Q: How is the effectiveness of Inderalla measured in clinical trials?

Effectiveness is measured through specific outcomes monitored in studies. These include documenting changes in blood pressure, cardiovascular event rates, reduction in the frequency of migraine headaches, and functional ability scores related to essential tremor.

Q: Are there any warnings for people with diabetes taking Inderalla?

There is a specific warning that the medicine may mask the signs and symptoms of acute hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), particularly a rapid heartbeat. This requires caution for individuals with diabetes mellitus.

Q: Can Inderalla affect a person's driving ability?

Because common side effects include dizziness and fatigue, regulatory precautions associated with these effects suggest avoiding activities like driving or operating hazardous machinery until the individual is aware of the medicine's effects.

Q: How does Inderalla affect heart rate?

The medicine is classified as a beta-blocker, and its fundamental action is to reduce the effect of stress hormones on the heart. This action results in a slowing of the heart rate and a decrease in the heart's workload.

Q: What should be done if a dose of Inderalla is missed?

Official labeling addresses missed doses by stating they should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Patients are cautioned not to take a double dose to compensate for a forgotten one.

Q: What is the typical time frame for starting to see the full benefit of Inderalla?

The time to achieve the full benefit depends on the condition. For high blood pressure, the full effect may be seen within a week. However, for prophylactic uses like migraine prevention, clinical studies indicate that the full therapeutic response may be observed over a period of up to 12 weeks.

How should Inderalla be stored and disposed of?

The official labeling for Inderalla (propranolol hydrochloride) defines mandatory rules for storage, handling, and disposal.

Storage Conditions

The medication must be stored at controlled room temperature, specifically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), with permitted excursions up to 30 C. The product must be protected from light and moisture and kept in a tightly closed container that is light-resistant. The liquid oral solution must not be refrigerated or frozen, and any unused portion must be discarded after 60 days from dispensing.

Handling and Disposal

The product must always be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

For disposal of unused medicine, the primary recommendation is to use a local drug take-back program. If one is unavailable, the official method is to mix the drug with an unappealing substance, place it in a secured container, and discard it in household trash. Flushing the medication is prohibited.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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