Propranolol

Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start giving propranolol to your child and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask the doctor or pharmacist.

Give this medication to your child by mouth as directed by the doctor, usually 2 times daily (at least 9 hours apart). This medication should be given during or right after a meal/feeding. Skip the dose of the medication if your child is not eating or is vomiting.

Do not shake the bottle before use. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/oral syringe. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. You may give this medication directly into the child's mouth with the oral syringe or the medication can be mixed in a small amount of milk or fruit juice and then given to the child. If you are unsure if your child swallowed the full dose of the medication or if your child spits up the dose, do not give another dose, but wait for the next scheduled dose.

The dosage is based on your child's medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. To reduce the risk of side effects, the doctor may direct your child to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase the dose. The dosage may be increased by the doctor as your child gains weight. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully. The blood pressure and heart rate should be monitored for 2 hours when the medication is first started and after each dose increase.

If your child also takes certain drugs to lower cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), give propranolol at least 1 hour before or at least 4 hours after these medications.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, give it at the same times each day.

Tell the doctor if your child's condition does not improve or if it worsens.