Drug interactions
Isoproterenol + Propranolol
Severity: Major
Isoproterenol and Propranolol: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Propranolol blocks the beta-adrenergic effects of isoproterenol, reducing its bronchodilator and cardiac stimulant actions. This can make isoproterenol ineffective in treating bradycardia or bronchospasm in a beta-blocked patient.
What this interaction means in plain words
Isoproterenol and Propranolol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Isoproterenol belongs to Respiratory; Propranolol belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Competitive antagonism at beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors.
What to do
Avoid relying on isoproterenol in patients taking propranolol; higher doses may be needed with close hemodynamic monitoring, or use alternatives such as glucagon for beta-blocker toxicity.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Propranolol
- Propranolol + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Propranolol Major
- Adrenaline-articaine + Propranolol Major
- Amifostine + Propranolol Major
- Amiodarone + Propranolol Major
- Arformoterol + Propranolol Major
Other interactions of Isoproterenol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Isoproterenol with Propranolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Isoproterenol and Propranolol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Propranolol blocks the beta-adrenergic effects of isoproterenol, reducing its bronchodilator and cardiac stimulant actions. This can make isoproterenol ineffective in treating bradycardia or bronchospasm in a beta-blocked patient.
How serious is the interaction between Isoproterenol and Propranolol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid relying on isoproterenol in patients taking propranolol; higher doses may be needed with close hemodynamic monitoring, or use alternatives such as glucagon for beta-blocker toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Propranolol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Propranolol with, for example, Thioridazine, Acebutolol, Adrenaline-articaine. The full list is on the Propranolol page.
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