Does propranolol cause euphoria?

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Is “propranolol euphoria” a thing? First, let’s learn more about what these two terms mean.

What is propranolol?

Propranolol is a prescription medication that doctors use primarily to treat high blood pressure. It’s also approved for other purposes, including managing anxiety and preventing migraine.

Propranolol belongs to a group of medications known as beta-blockers. Beta-blockers lower your body’s response to stress by blocking the action of hormones like adrenaline. Beta-blockers also help reduce the force and speed of your heartbeat and lower your blood pressure.

What is euphoria?

The American Psychological Association (APA) defines euphoria as a feeling of “extreme happiness and an elevated sense of well-being.”

An exaggerated degree of euphoria that doesn’t reflect the reality of one’s situation is common in episodes of mania and hypomania, according to APA.

Does propranolol cause euphoria?

Like other drugs, propranolol can cause side effects. But in clinical studies of the drug, euphoria was not among the reported side effects of propranolol. Also, euphoria has not been reported as a side effect of propranolol since the drug gained approval for use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

At this time, there is no compelling evidence that propranolol causes euphoria. This, however, doesn’t rule out the possibility that new research in the future might find a connection between propranolol use and episodes of euphoria. But until that happens, it’s safe to say that propranolol does not cause euphoria.

Might propranolol “euphoria” be something else?

Possible adverse reactions to propranolol are documented in the drug’s prescribing information. Among these are several side effects that can affect the central nervous system (CNS), including:

• lightheadedness
• insomnia
• fatigue
• visual disturbances
• hallucinations
• vivid dreams

If someone says they’ve experienced “euphoria” as a side effect of propranolol, it’s possible they are actually experiencing one or more of these documented CNS side effects of the drug.

It’s also possible that if someone is taking propranolol to manage anxiety, they may experience relief from anxiety symptoms from the drug, and they may interpret it as “euphoria.”

But if we correctly define euphoria as “extreme happiness and an elevated sense of well-being” that’s not aligned with the reality of one’s situation, there is currently no compelling evidence at this time that propranolol causes euphoria.

If you experience any side effects of propranolol when taking this medication, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Summary

Propranolol does not cause euphoria. But it may cause certain side effects that could be mistaken for euphoria. Also, if you are taking propranolol to manage anxiety, relief from anxiety symptoms might be interpreted as euphoria.

If you feel you are experiencing episodes of euphoria or other side effects from taking propranolol tablets, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

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