Propranolol for anxiety?

Question

I went to my doctor because i was having what he thought was panic/anxiety attacks, i've had depression before and now feel like i'm sinking back into it, at the time thought was just the anxiety. He told me to keep a mood diary and then go back and see whether i should be put on propranolol, i'm not really happy about the idea but i get these mood episodes in cycles with depression at a seperate time so it's the anxiety for a few weeks then depression after for a long time, propranolol affects the heart and that sounds really risky to me, will it cause more trouble than it's worth and does it send you into more depression? Thanks

Answer 1

Generally the side effects of propranolol are very minor, the exception is that it can trigger status asthmaticus in asthmatics and cannot be used in these patients.

Often the answer foe anxiety and some types of depression is not medication at all, but therapy notably CBT. Propranol can me useful insuppressing the somatic, (physical) symptoms without some of the risks of antidepressants or anxiolytics.

Answer 2

Hi, I have depression & anxiety, my doctor put me on Propanalol which is a Beta-blocker,mainly used for High blood pressure. Unfortunately I already have low blood pressure & these tablets have caused a lot of damage to my Kidneys etc.If you decide to take them make sure from your G.P that you are able to take them without too many side effects & read the enclosed manufacturers leaflet that comes with the tablets before taking them.

Answer 3

it's rare to find a doctor who genuinely understands how you feel, but please don't be disheartened, propanolol is a beta blocker, usually prescribed for people with heart problems,its designed to take away the physical symptoms caused by anxiety, it won't cause damage to your heart as its there to help your heart, the breathing problems you have may be due to the anxiety anyway, worry is also a problem when your'e anxious, you worry way more, give the tablets a go, i hope you feel better soon x*x

Answer 4

well..maybe you should try to find out what's causing your "panic/anxiety attacks" then what ever it is try to avoid it. then what ever is causing your depression. i suffer from depression so i know how hard it can be..and i have had a lot of experiences in my little life lol.

just try to see a phsyologist (I really can't spell that word)

but yh

hope i helped

:D