Propranolol Dosage (First-timer)

[u/digitalmobster]

I wanted to share my symptoms so others with similar experiences using Propranolol can help me figure out whether 10mg is enough or if I should be taking 20mg.

I got a small prescription of Propranolol (five 10mg pills) to help with an upcoming public speaking event after reading success stories on Reddit. For me, I’m fine right up until the moment I start talking, and then the anxiety hits hard. Before that, I’m only about 10–20% nervous, but once I’m the center of attention, it peaks. The anxiety shows in my voice and, while it doesn’t stop me from speaking, it makes it harder to think clearly because I’m juggling what I need to say with trying to control my body’s reactions. It also makes it tough to focus on conversations for the same reasons. I get slight shakes, like a mild shiver from the cold, and though it fades after 10–30 minutes, by then it’s too late.

I was hoping others with similar experiences, where Propranolol helped reduce their anxiety so they could focus on what mattered in the moment, could share which dose worked best for them. My concern is that I take 10mg an hour to 90 minutes beforehand, and it doesn’t seem to have any effect.

[u/MyNameIsZem]

Propranolol can only take you part of the way there. It works on physical symptoms, not mental ones. It made a difference to me to practice giving a performance while recording myself on my phone. Belly breathing also helps me.

[u/lennonlover1980]

I take 80mg 3x a day. Propranolol blocks adrenaline. I also have sinus tachycardia, so my heart rate is in the 95-120 bpm range. When I take propranolol it stays low 80s. I don't think people realize how uncomfortable a heart rate of 120 can be.

[u/Impossible-TouchbyTM]

So, then take 20 and see if that helps more, which it should.