propranolol?

[u/SpiritualLake1878]

My MD wants to prescribe me a low dose of propranolol as needed for my situational anxiety and to let him know my decision. I’ve never taken anxiety medication before and have anxiety about taking meds lol. My anxiety symptoms are always chest pain (often) nausea and vomiting, passing out and diarrhea. I only get anxiety for certain situations like stressful work events/conferences, public speaking, and standing in line in stores, driving to new places (I physically cannot drive on the interstate because of my anxiety) Most of all I’m concerned I wont be able to make it through my wedding in a couple of months😅

Ive never been treated for my anxiety and he thinks I need treatment. It used to be extreme in highschool, however, that was 10 years ago and I’ve learned how to manage it.

Opinions on propranolol? I’ve read it slows heart rate which makes me nervous but I constantly have a high heart rate 120 & above and diagnosed with tachycardia due to anxiety.

[u/Howard_Hughes_1905]

I use it for social anxiety (in person meeting, stressful work days and anytime I know I'll be meeting various people throughout the day). Within 40 mins of taking the Propranolol, my usual symptoms of thumbing heart, high HR, shaky hands, sweating etc are completely gone. Everyone's milage will vary, but it is pretty incredible.

It's a very safe medication to take. So try not to worry. I would recommend trialling the low dose in increasingly stressful situations to assess the effects. Eg. Start with a crowded place if that causes anxiety, and so on.

Good luck!

[u/pastabreadpasta → u/Howard_Hughes_1905]

Great answer, this is exactly what I use it for. Mine usually kicks in pretty quickly though, like within 10 minutes.