Overview

Inderal LA is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prophylaxis (prevention) of common migraine headaches. It is used to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks in adults who require preventive therapy. It is not indicated to treat a migraine attack once it has started. Inderal LA is also known by its drug name, propranolol hydrochloride.

Inderal LA is a nonselective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker (beta blocker). Scientists believe it helps prevent migraine attacks by blocking beta receptors in blood vessels and the nervous system, which may reduce changes in brain blood flow and calm overactive nerve signals involved in migraine development .

How do I take it?

Prescribing information states that Inderal LA is taken by mouth as a long-acting capsule, usually once daily. For migraine prevention, the recommended starting dose is taken once daily, and the dose may be increased gradually to achieve the best response. The usual effective dose range is taken once daily, and if a satisfactory response is not achieved within four to six weeks after reaching the maximum dose, therapy should be discontinued. If stopping treatment, the dose should be reduced gradually over several weeks. Do not stop taking this medication or change dosages without first consulting your prescribing physician.

Inderal LA should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects

Common side effects of Inderal LA include bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), light-headedness, fatigue, weakness, depression, insomnia (trouble sleeping), vivid dreams, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, constipation, bronchospasm (airway tightening), paresthesia (tingling in the hands), and rash .

Rare but serious side effects may include congestive heart failure (the heart cannot pump blood effectively), worsening atrioventricular block (a heart rhythm problem), severe hypotension (very low blood pressure), hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (serious skin reactions), agranulocytosis (very low white blood cell count), thrombocytopenic purpura (low platelet count with bleeding or bruising), systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease), ischemic colitis (reduced blood flow to the colon), and severe bronchospasm (serious breathing difficulty) .

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Label: Inderal LA — Propranolol Hydrochloride Capsule, Extended Release — DailyMed