Propanolol as an antipsychotic adjunct

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Specializes in MPCU.

I note that propanolol is used in treating anxiety, phobias and substance abuse. I have seen it prescribed to a single diagnosis patient with paranoid schizophrenia. Is this use a chemical restraint or does it have a theraputic use with this diagnosis?

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Specializes in cardiac, post-op surgicals,critical care.

I know that it does help for anxiety and my old psych professor highly recommended it for that. I don't see how it would be considered a chemical restraint as it doesn't alter the LOC.

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I Believe It Is Used To Decrease Some Of The Symptoms Of Anxiety Associated With Public Speaking And Of Course, Rapid Heart Rate. Medically It Is Most Commonly Used For Migraines And Acute Mi To Slow The Heart Rate And Provide Increases Oxygen To The Myocardium.(beta Blockers, Not Just Propanol)

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Specializes in Vascular Access Nurse.

We use it to help prevent some of the side effects of antipsychotics...it works to help prevent some of the tremors. No clue if that's FDA approved or not.....but it works for some. Of course, we're doing BP checks all the time, and it's not for everyone...

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Specializes in Psych.

Beta blockers are sometimes used to counteract akasthesia associated with antipsychotics (either standard or atypical)

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