Propranolol to reduce anxiety at hospital

[jannyk]

I've got to have a caudal steriod epidural into my low back and my doc has given me 40mg propranolol to keep me calm as i get really bad anxiety if having anything done at hosp or dentist. Just wondered if anyone had taken it as a 'one-off' and what to expect - don't even like taking meds!

[Hazel B]

Hi, Propranolol will block your "fight or flight" adrenaline response and will help to make you calm. One tablet takes about 20 mins to get in your system and then your heart will stop pounding and the symptoms of anxiety will lessen. You usually need to have the tablet with food, but that may not be OK with your procedure.

I had no side-effects, just felt more sleepy. I had 40mg tablets and am quite a small person. Hope this helps.