Nadolol

About Nadolol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as beta-blockers.

Nadolol can be used to treat high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), irregular heartbeat, anxiety and complications resulting from certain thyroid problems. It can also be used to protect the heart following a heart attack and to prevent migraines occurring.

High Blood Pressure: Nadolol works by blocking the transmission of messages to the beta receptors in the heart which slows down the activity of the heart decreasing blood pressure.

Angina: Nadolol works by blocking the transmission of messages to the beta receptors in the heart which slows down the activity of the heart and reduces the heart's need for oxygen. This makes angina attacks less likely to occur.

Irregular Heartbeat: Normally the heartbeat is regulated by special tissues which conduct electricity. Some cases of irregular heartbeat are caused by these tissues conducting electricity too quickly. Propranolol works by reducing over-activity in the conducting tissue.

Anxiety: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as fast heartbeat, palpitations and trembling. Nadolol slows the heart rate and affects beta receptors in the muscles to relieve these symptoms. (This medicine does not relieve the emotional symptoms associated with anxiety such as stress or fear, these symptoms should be treated separately).

Thyroid Problems: An overactive thyroid gland causes symptoms such as a fast or pounding heartbeat, trembling and sweating. Blocking beta receptors relieves these symptoms quickly, as anti-thyroid treatment usually takes several weeks to take effect.

Migraine: The pain of a migraine attack is usually due to widening of the blood vessels on the surface of the brain. Nadolol prevents this widening and thus prevents attacks.

Nadolol is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Corgard. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking Nadolol

Before taking nadolol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer from low blood pressure or poor circulation
• if you suffer from asthma or breathing difficulties
• if you suffer from diabetes
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to take Nadolol

• Take nadolol exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Do not stop taking nadolol without speaking to your doctor first.
• Try to take nadolol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of nadolol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• Nadolol is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside nadolol.
• Keep your regular doctors appointments so your progress can be monitored.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking nadolol.
• It is very important to follow any dietary advice that you may have been given by your doctor.
• If you have diabetes: Check your blood glucose levels regularly as nadolol can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

Can Nadolol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted symptoms, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome

Tiredness, coldness of the extremities (fingers, toes and nose), disturbed sleep, nightmares, shortness of breath, upset tummy, skin rashes or dry eyes.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms which you think may be due to nadolol, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Nadolol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 02/04/2003