Drug interactions
Pirbuterol + Propranolol
Severity: Major
Pirbuterol and Propranolol: major interaction.
Last updated
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 is a nonselective beta-blocker that directly opposes the bronchodilating effect of pirbuterol and can precipitate severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD. Pirbuterol may also be rendered ineffective as rescue therapy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Pirbuterol 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.
Why it happens
Competitive pharmacodynamic antagonism at beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the airways.
What to do
Avoid nonselective beta-blockers in patients with asthma or bronchospastic disease; use a cardioselective agent if a beta-blocker is essential. Monitor respiratory function closely.
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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Other interactions of Propranolol
- Propranolol + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Propranolol Major
- Adrenaline-articaine + Propranolol Major
- Albuterol + Propranolol Major
- Amifostine + Propranolol Major
- Amiodarone + Propranolol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Pirbuterol with Propranolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Pirbuterol 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 is a nonselective beta-blocker that directly opposes the bronchodilating effect of pirbuterol and can precipitate severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD. Pirbuterol may also be rendered ineffective as rescue therapy.
How serious is the interaction between Pirbuterol 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 nonselective beta-blockers in patients with asthma or bronchospastic disease; use a cardioselective agent if a beta-blocker is essential. Monitor respiratory function closely.
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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