Sumial (Propranolol): uses and side effects of this drug
A drug that fights anxiety, but is also prescribed for other purposes.
Sumial or propranolol is a drug widely used to treat physiological anxiety symptoms such as tachycardia and tremors. such as tachycardia and tremors. It is also frequently used in cases of hypertension and cardiovascular problems in general.
We propose to analyze what Sumial is, what it is used for and what are the possible side effects it can cause, especially if we consume it irresponsibly.
What is propranolol?
"Sumial is the trade name for propranolol, a drug belonging to the beta-blocker group, which inhibits adrenaline and noradrenalin, and thus the physiological response of the body.a and thus the physiological stress response.
This means that propranolol decreases the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which manifests itself in a reduction of the heart rate that has relaxing effects at the physical and psychological levels.
Sumial and other beta-blockers are mainly used for "stage fright" and to treat heart and cardiovascular system problems, such as cardiac arrhythmias.
What is it used for?
We have already mentioned the best-known uses of propranolol, but it has other therapeutic applications in addition to heart rate reduction and physical activation. In any case, it should be noted that this product should only be consumed under medical indication and supervision.
1. Physical symptoms of anxiety
Sumial is effective in reducing physiological activation symptoms such as palpitations, tremors and excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis. All these can present themselves as physical symptoms of anxiety, so in many cases they occur in stressful situations that our body interprets as threats.
This type of symptoms are more frequent in people with a tendency to physiological anxiety, such as in cases of social phobia or post-traumatic stress.such as in cases of social phobia or post-traumatic stress, although they can occur in anxiogenic situations without the need for this condition to be met.
However, and although it is common to take Sumial without a prescription for difficult exams or public speeches, this can be risky: since we cannot be sure how our body will react to the drug, taking it in these cases could worsen performance.
- Recommended article: "The 7 types of anxiety (causes and symptoms)".
2. Hypertension and heart disorders
The main indication of Sumial is the treatment of heart problems since it reduces the heart rate.. It is thus effective in treating hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia and angina pectoris, as well as in preventing heart attacks in people who have already suffered one.
In the past, propranolol and beta-blockers in general were widely used to treat hypertension, but these drugs have lost popularity because there are other more effective drugs. Diuretic drugs such as thiazides stand out, as they cause the blood vessels to contain less fluid, leading to a reduction in blood pressure.
3. Headache
Sumial is effective for the treatment of migraine headaches, migraines and headaches, including cluster headache. In particular, it is considered to work well for the prevention of headaches.
Propranolol is especially indicated for the prevention and treatment of infantile migraines since there are few drugs that fight them effectively and safely. Amitriptyline, riboflavin and some anticonvulsants can also be used for this purpose.
4. Capillary hemangioma
Hemangioma or "strawberry mark" is a type of benign skin tumor that appears in some infants during their first year of life. The striking red color of hemangiomas is due to the fact that they are formed by blood vessels.
Capillary hemangiomas usually disappear between 5 and 10 years of age without treatment. If necessary, corticosteroids or beta-blockers are administered or surgery is performed.a.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Sumial can also be effective in treating thyroid gland problems.The thyroid gland is a kind of hormone directory, which produces symptoms such as increased heart rate, diarrhea, weight loss and irritability, as well as other symptoms similar to those of anxiety.
This is important, since the thyroid gland is a kind of hormone directory. Problems in this organ are capable of generating a chain reaction affecting several areas of the organism, as well as affecting mood.
6. Pheochromocytoma
Pheochromocytoma is a type of tumor of the adrenal gland caused by high blood pressure. The recommended treatment for this disease is a combination of propranolol and an alpha-adrenergic blocker..
7. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease usually caused by ocular hypertension.. This disorder manifests itself in the progressive decrease of the visual field and if left untreated can cause significant damage to the optic nerve, as well as loss of vision.
8. Essential tremor
The term "essential tremor" refers to a type of benign tremor that typically occurs in the hands, usually starting after the age of 40 and worsening with age.
Essential tremor appears to have a genetic basis and is affected by factors such as physical fatigue or stress.. When severe enough to require treatment, beta-blockers are used as the drug of first choice.
Side effects
The most frequent side effects of Sumial are related to its therapeutic effects. Thus, it can slow down the heart rate excessively and produce fatigue or a feeling of tiredness. It can also disturb sleep and cause nightmares.
Occasionally the use of propranolol can cause Raynaud's syndrome, a circulatory disorder characterized by a feeling of fatigue or tiredness.a circulatory disorder characterized by numbness and pain in the hands.
Less frequent adverse effects include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, respiratory difficulties, dizziness, skin rash, psoriasis, bruising and hair loss.
It should be noted that side effects are normal in all types of drugs, although their intensity varies.The intensity and the specific effects they produce vary. This is because these drugs are substances that not only influence the target tissues and cells, but also many others, which produces side effects.
Contraindications
It is not recommended that people with Asthma or with a predisposition to hypotension, hypoglycemia or heart failure take Sumial, since its effects would aggravate these symptoms and could pose a risk.
Women should not take propranolol during pregnancy and breast-feeding to prevent the drug from affecting the baby. Also, people with heart, liver, kidney, circulation or thyroid problems should be especially cautious when taking Sumial.. In any case, it is not recommended to take this drug without a doctor's prescription.
Taking propranolol increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and may aggravate the symptoms of people with diabetes, further altering their body's response to insulin.
(Updated at Apr 13 / 2024)