Does Epinephrine Interact with Propranolol Hydrochloride?
Epinephrine and Propranolol Hydrochloride have a contraindicated drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Patients on long-term propranolol therapy may experience uncontrolled hypertension if administered epinephrine due to unopposed alpha-receptor stimulation. Not indicated for propranolol overdose. The mechanism involves unopposed alpha-receptor stimulation. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Contraindicated
- Epinephrine Class
- alpha-Adrenergic Agonist
- Management
- Do not take together
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Epinephrine and Propranolol Hydrochloride occurs because unopposed alpha-receptor stimulation. Clinically, this means patients on long-term propranolol therapy may experience uncontrolled hypertension if administered epinephrine due to unopposed alpha-receptor stimulation. not indicated for propranolol overdose. Because of the severity of this interaction, these medications are contraindicated — meaning they should not be taken together under any circumstances. If you are currently taking both, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss alternatives.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Epinephrine and your doctor is considering prescribing Propranolol Hydrochloride (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask about alternative medications that do not interact with your current regimen
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider