Posted by yxibow on July 11, 2008, at 1:50:27
In reply to Re: Beta Blockers and Depression, posted by undopaminergic on July 4, 2008, at 12:02:59
I've never particularly experienced any depression from propranolol. But I'm a high metabolizer and everyone is different.
I use it more PRN for odd hypertensive occasions that usually are anxiety related, up to 40-80mg.
Yes, its probably true that as a CNS depressant in part, it can cause depression. But that goes for any CNS depressant, including benzodiazepines, certain AEDs, Benadryl, etc.
Regular use of it for anxiety might impart depression in those prone to it, I would agree.
But the most important thing about beta blockers really is to have an electronic cuff (pulse/blood pressure) meter around (you can get them at most drugstores) to check your pulse and blood pressure occasionally.
Although it is non-cardioselective, nonetheless propranolol is still is a beta blocker and I think the most immediate danger is fainting (especially while operating machinery or driving) or falling from doses that produce hypotension over a long period of time.
There are as mentioned other non-cardioselective beta blockers if propranolol is not for you but propranolol has the most case history behind it for psychiatric use.-- tidings
Jay
poster:yxibow
thread:809406
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080706/msgs/839221.html