Oxprenolol

About Oxprenolol

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

Oxprenolol can be used to treat high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), irregular heartbeat and to help relieve the symptoms of anxiety.

High Blood Pressure: Oxprenolol 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: Oxprenolol 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. Oxprenolol works by reducing over-activity in the conducting tissue.

Anxiety: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as fast heartbeat, palpitations and trembling. Oxprenolol 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).

Oxprenolol is available in tablet form.

Oxprenolol is also available in modified release form, which means oxprenolol is released slowly over the day to give an even effect.

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

Before taking Oxprenolol

Before taking oxprenolol 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 Oxprenolol

• Take oxprenolol exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
• Try to take oxprenolol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Swallow the modified release form of oxprenolol whole (not crushed or chewed).
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of oxprenolol go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• Oxprenolol 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 oxprenolol.
• 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 oxprenolol.
• 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 this preparation can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

Can Oxprenolol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the side effects mentioned below 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 side effects which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Oxprenolol

• 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