Propranolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins). Propranolol is used to treat tremors, angina (chest pain), hypertension (high blood pressure), heart rhythm disorders, and other heart or circulatory conditions. It is also used to treat or prevent heart attack, and to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine headaches. Hemangeol (propranolol oral liquid 4.28 milligrams) is given to infants who are at least 5 weeks old to treat a genetic condition called infantile hemangiomas. Hemangiomas are caused by blood vessels grouping together in an abnormal way. These blood vessels form benign (non-cancerous) growths that can develop into ulcers or red marks on the skin. Hemangiomas can also cause more serious complications inside the body (in the liver, brain, or digestive system). Propranolol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to propranolol, if you have asthma, very slow heart beats, or a serious heart condition such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker). Advertisement SLIDESHOW Options for Chronic Pain: A Health Care Professional's Guide Babies who weigh less than 4.5 pounds should not be given Hemangeol oral liquid.

Take propranolol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Adults may take propranolol with or without food, but take it the same way each time. Take propranolol at the same time each day. Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow it whole. Hemangeol must be given to an infant during or just after a feeding. Doses should be spaced at least 9 hours apart. Make sure your child gets fed regularly while taking this medicine. Tell your doctor when the child has any changes in weight. Hemangeol doses are based on weight in children, and any changes may affect your child's dose. Call your doctor if a child taking Hemangeol is sick with vomiting, or has any loss of appetite. Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not shake Hemangeol liquid. Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using propranolol. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time. Do not skip doses or stop using propranolol suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse. Follow your doctor's instructions about tapering your dose. This medicine can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using propranolol. If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using propranolol even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life. Propranolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow liquid medicine to freeze. Throw away any unused Hemangeol 2 months after you first opened the bottle.