Propranolol is a medication originally created to treat high blood pressure, but some people use it to manage anxiety, especially in situations like public speaking or exams.
Northeastern University professor Raymond Booth first noticed classmates using it for anxiety back in the 1970s. Today, even celebrities like Robert Downey Jr. and Katy Perry have talked about using it to calm their nerves.
Propranolol works by slowing the heart rate and blocking stress hormones. This can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, like a racing heart and sweating.
However, experts warn that propranolol isn’t approved by the FDA for treating anxiety. It’s often used off-label, meaning doctors prescribe it for uses not officially approved.
Associate professor Rachel Rodgers says anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and that avoiding it can make it worse over time. Learning to manage uncomfortable feelings without medication can be more helpful for many people.
For those with anxiety disorders that seriously affect their daily lives, medications like SSRIs or benzodiazepines are more commonly prescribed. Propranolol is not usually the first choice.
Propranolol is generally safe and used often for high blood pressure and heart issues. But side effects can include fatigue and nightmares. Taking too much, or taking it without needing it, can cause serious problems like low blood pressure, blood clots, or even heart failure.
In short, while propranolol can help with performance anxiety, it’s important to use it responsibly and only under medical supervision. Don’t take it just because a friend or celebrity suggests it.
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