PROPRANOLOL

What is propranolol?

Propranolol, a medication in the class called beta blockers, is used to treat heart conditions in patients. Beta-blockers work by acting on the beta receptors in the heart, blocking its action and resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.

How can propranolol be used for those with long-COVID?

Recent research has shown that this class of medications may be helpful for those suffering with symptoms of long-COVID. Patients diagnosed with long-COVID often experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), chest pain, and a fast heartbeat. Cardiologists at Cedars-Sinai Hospital have found that treatment with beta-blockers, combined with a low salt intake and adequate hydration, can improve long-COVID symptoms [1].

There is also evidence to suggest that beta blockers have some anti-inflammatory effects. In addition to increasing the heartbeat, beta receptors are pro-inflammatory. They release certain signals that aid in activating the immune response. By blocking these signals, the immune system response decreases, leading to a decrease in clinical symptoms in patients [2]. Additional research is needed to fully understand the scope of propranolol and long-COVID; however, the positive evidence recently discovered provides hope that it may be useful for patients.

References:

 ¹https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom/long-covid-19-and-the-heart/#:~:text=In%20patients%20with%20problems%20related,a%20seated%20or%20recumbent%20position.

 ²https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2021.749291/full