Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Prescription Required
NPPA Regulated
Marketer
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
SALT COMPOSITION
Propranolol (40mg)
Storage
Store below 30°C
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Buynow
Introduction
Betacap TR 40 Capsule is a time-release formulation containing propranolol hydrochloride, a non-selective beta-blocker widely used in cardiovascular medicine. The TR (time-release) technology allows for once-daily dosing, making it convenient for patients while providing consistent therapeutic effects throughout the day. Propranolol blocks the effects of adrenaline on the heart and blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease the heart's workload.
This medication is primarily prescribed for various cardiovascular conditions including hypertension and angina, as well as for prevention of migraines and management of certain symptoms of anxiety. With decades of clinical use supporting its safety profile, Betacap TR 40 remains an important treatment option in both cardiology and neurology practices.
Whether you're newly prescribed this medication or seeking more information about your current treatment, this guide provides comprehensive details about Betacap TR 40's uses, benefits, dosage instructions, potential side effects, and important precautions.
Key Composition & Ingredients
Active Ingredient:
- Propranolol Hydrochloride (40 mg) in extended-release form
Inactive Ingredients:
- Hypromellose (provides the time-release property)
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Ethylcellulose
- Talc
- Gelatin (capsule shell)
- Titanium dioxide and other coloring agents
The specialized coating on the medication particles allows for gradual dissolution and absorption, maintaining therapeutic blood levels throughout the day.
Uses of Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Betacap TR 40 is prescribed for several medical conditions:
-
Cardiovascular Conditions:
- Management of hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Treatment of angina pectoris (chest pain)
- Control of certain arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
- Secondary prevention after myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
-
Neurological Conditions:
- Prevention of migraine headaches
- Management of essential tremor
- Reduction of symptoms in benign essential tremor
-
Anxiety-Related Conditions:
- Physical symptoms of anxiety (palpitations, trembling)
- Performance anxiety or "stage fright"
- Situational anxiety
-
Other Uses:
- Adjunctive treatment in hyperthyroidism to control symptoms
- Management of portal hypertension in patients with liver disease
- Part of treatment regimen for pheochromocytoma (with alpha-blockers)
Benefits of Betacap TR 40 Capsule
-
Cardiovascular Benefits:
- Effectively lowers and controls blood pressure
- Reduces heart rate and cardiac workload, decreasing oxygen demand
- Relieves angina symptoms by improving oxygen supply-demand balance
- Helps regulate heart rhythm in certain arrhythmias
- May reduce risk of mortality after heart attack
-
Neurological Benefits:
- Reduces frequency and severity of migraine attacks by about 50% in responsive patients
- Decreases tremor amplitude in essential tremor, improving quality of life
- May help with certain types of headaches beyond migraines
-
Convenience Benefits:
- Once-daily dosing improves medication adherence
- Extended-release formulation provides steady drug levels over 24 hours
- Reduces the "peak and trough" effect seen with immediate-release formulations
- Lower risk of missed doses compared to multiple daily dosing regimens
-
Anxiety Management:
- Reduces physical symptoms of anxiety without the sedating effects of anxiety medications
- Particularly beneficial for performance anxiety situations
- Does not cause dependence as seen with benzodiazepines
How Betacap TR 40 Capsule Works (Mechanism of Action)
Propranolol, the active ingredient in Betacap TR 40, is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent that works through several mechanisms:
-
Beta-Receptor Blockade:
- Blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, reducing:
- Heart rate (negative chronotropic effect)
- Force of heart contractions (negative inotropic effect)
- Conduction velocity through the AV node (negative dromotropic effect)
- Overall cardiac output and oxygen consumption
- Blocks beta-2 receptors in bronchi and blood vessels, which can:
- Cause mild bronchoconstriction (generally not significant in non-asthmatic patients)
- Prevent vasodilation in certain blood vessels
- Blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, reducing:
-
Blood Pressure Effects:
- Reduces cardiac output through beta-1 blockade
- Decreases renin release from the kidneys
- Inhibits sympathetic nervous system stimulation of the heart and blood vessels
- With long-term use, lowers peripheral vascular resistance
-
Migraine Prevention:
- May stabilize vascular reactivity
- Reduces cerebral blood flow variations
- Blocks stress-induced vascular responses
- May affect serotonergic pathways involved in migraine
-
Time-Release Technology:
- The TR capsule contains multiple coated particles designed to dissolve at different rates
- Provides controlled release of propranolol over approximately 24 hours
- Maintains therapeutic blood levels without significant peaks and troughs
- Reduces side effects associated with peak concentrations
Dosage of Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Standard Dosage
The dosage varies based on the condition being treated:
-
Hypertension:
- Initial dose: Usually 40-80 mg once daily
- Maintenance dose: 120-160 mg once daily
- Maximum dose: Generally not exceeding 320 mg daily
-
Angina:
- Initial dose: 40-80 mg once daily
- Maintenance dose: 120-160 mg once daily
- Dose adjusted based on symptom control
-
Migraine Prevention:
- Initial dose: 40 mg once daily
- Typical effective dose: 80-160 mg once daily
- Response should be evaluated after 4-6 weeks of treatment
-
Essential Tremor:
- Initial dose: 40 mg once daily
- Typical dose range: 80-160 mg once daily
- Dosage adjusted based on tremor control
-
Anxiety Symptoms:
- Initial dose: 40 mg once daily
- Typical dose range: 40-80 mg once daily
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose:
- Take it as soon as you remember within 8 hours of the scheduled time
- If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule
- Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include:
- Extremely low heart rate (bradycardia)
- Severe drop in blood pressure
- Fainting or dizziness
- Breathing difficulties
- Bluish skin color
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrest in severe cases
If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
How to Use Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Directions for Use
- Take Betacap TR 40 exactly as prescribed by your doctor
- Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water
- Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule as this will destroy the time-release mechanism
- Can be taken with or without food, but be consistent (either always with food or always without)
- Take at approximately the same time each day to maintain steady blood levels
- For hypertension, full effect may take several weeks; continue taking even if you feel well
- Blood pressure monitoring is recommended, especially when starting treatment
- Never stop taking abruptly without medical supervision
Side Effects of Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Common Side Effects (Usually Mild)
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cold hands and feet
- Slow heart rate
- Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams
- Mild digestive issues (nausea, constipation)
These often improve after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.
Less Common Side Effects
- Depression or mood changes
- Memory problems or confusion (more common in elderly)
- Sexual dysfunction
- Worsening of asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals
- Low blood sugar symptoms (in diabetic patients)
- Dry eyes or vision changes
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Severe bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate)
- Heart failure symptoms (shortness of breath, swelling, rapid weight gain)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Severe hypotension (low blood pressure causing fainting)
- Raynaud's phenomenon (severe circulatory problems in extremities)
Managing Side Effects
- For cold extremities: Wear warm clothing, especially gloves and socks
- For dizziness: Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions
- For sleep issues: Take the medication earlier in the day if possible
- For digestive issues: Take with food if approved by your doctor
- Report any concerning or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider
Safety Advice for Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Alcohol
- Caution Advised: Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of propranolol
- Can increase dizziness and risk of falls
- Best to avoid alcohol or limit intake significantly while on this medication
Pregnancy
- Category C: Potential risks to the fetus; benefits may outweigh risks in certain situations
- Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and after discussion with an obstetrician
- May cause low birth weight, low blood sugar, or slow heart rate in newborns if used near delivery
- Alternative medications may be considered for hypertension during pregnancy
Breastfeeding
- Propranolol passes into breast milk in small amounts
- Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding by most experts
- Monitor the infant for unusual sleepiness, poor feeding, or other concerns
- Consult with a healthcare provider about timing doses to minimize infant exposure
Driving and Operating Machinery
- May cause dizziness or fatigue, especially when starting treatment
- Avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you
- Take particular caution when changing positions quickly or during hot weather
Kidney Function
- Dose adjustment usually not required for mild to moderate kidney impairment
- More frequent monitoring recommended for severe kidney impairment
- Drug elimination may be slightly prolonged in kidney disease
Liver Function
- Propranolol is extensively metabolized by the liver
- Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with liver disease
- Regular liver function monitoring advised for patients with existing liver conditions
- Higher risk of side effects in patients with cirrhosis
Use in Children
- Safety and efficacy not fully established for all indications in children
- Used in select pediatric conditions (e.g., certain arrhythmias) under specialist supervision
- Dosing must be calculated based on weight and adjusted as the child grows
- Children should be monitored closely for side effects
Use in Older Patients
- Increased sensitivity to beta-blockers; may require lower initial doses
- Greater risk of side effects, especially dizziness, fatigue, and confusion
- More careful monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure required
- Dose adjustments may be necessary based on individual response
Allergies
- Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to propranolol or any component
- Cross-sensitivity with other beta-blockers is possible
- Alert your doctor to any history of allergic reactions to medications
Warnings & Precautions for Betacap TR 40 Capsule
-
Cardiac Conditions:
- Not to be used in certain heart conditions like severe bradycardia, heart block greater than first degree, cardiogenic shock, or severe heart failure
- Must be used with caution in compensated heart failure
- Regular cardiac monitoring may be required
-
Respiratory Conditions:
- Contraindicated in bronchial asthma or history of bronchospasm
- Use with extreme caution in COPD or other respiratory diseases
- May worsen respiratory symptoms in susceptible individuals
-
Diabetes:
- May mask symptoms of hypoglycemia (especially tachycardia)
- Can prolong hypoglycemic effect of insulin
- Blood glucose monitoring may need to be more frequent
- Dose adjustments of antidiabetic medications may be necessary
-
Thyroid Disorders:
- May mask symptoms of hyperthyroidism like tachycardia
- Can complicate management of thyroid storm
- Abrupt withdrawal in hyperthyroidism can precipitate thyroid storm
-
Peripheral Vascular Disease:
- Can exacerbate symptoms of arterial insufficiency
- Use with caution in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon or peripheral vascular disease
-
Anesthesia and Surgery:
- Inform your anesthesiologist about propranolol use before surgery
- May need dose adjustment or temporary discontinuation depending on surgical procedure
- Interactions with certain anesthetics possible
-
Pheochromocytoma:
- Should only be used after adequate alpha-blocker coverage
- Using beta-blockers alone can cause paradoxical hypertension
-
Withdrawal:
- Never discontinue abruptly as this can lead to rebound hypertension, angina exacerbation, or heart attack
- Gradual tapering over 1-2 weeks is recommended when discontinuation is necessary
-
Mental Health Effects:
- May cause or worsen depression in some patients
- Report any mood changes to your healthcare provider promptly
-
Allergic Reactions:
- May increase sensitivity to allergens and severity of anaphylactic reactions
- Those with history of severe allergic reactions should carry emergency medication
Interactions with Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Drug-Drug Interactions
-
Antihypertensives:
- Enhanced blood pressure-lowering effects with other antihypertensive drugs
- Particularly significant with calcium channel blockers like verapamil or diltiazem
- Careful monitoring required when used with clonidine
-
Antiarrhythmics:
- Additive effects with other drugs that slow heart rate
- Caution with amiodarone, digoxin, and other antiarrhythmic agents
- Increased risk of heart block or severe bradycardia
-
Antidiabetic Medications:
- May prolong hypoglycemic effect of insulin and oral antidiabetic drugs
- May mask warning signs of hypoglycemia
- Blood glucose monitoring frequency may need to be increased
-
NSAIDs:
- May reduce the antihypertensive effect of propranolol
- Regular blood pressure monitoring recommended with concurrent use
-
CYP450 Enzyme Interactions:
- Drugs that inhibit CYP2D6 (like quinidine, fluoxetine, paroxetine) may increase propranolol levels
- Drugs that induce hepatic enzymes (like rifampin) may decrease propranolol levels
-
Other Significant Interactions:
- Cimetidine: Increases propranolol blood levels
- Chlorpromazine and other phenothiazines: Enhanced effects of both drugs
- Lidocaine: Propranolol may reduce lidocaine clearance
- Warfarin: Possible enhanced anticoagulant effect
- MAO inhibitors: Increased risk of severe hypertension
Drug-Food Interactions
-
Food in General:
- Food may slightly increase the bioavailability of propranolol
- Consistent timing with respect to meals is recommended
-
Grapefruit Juice:
- May increase propranolol blood levels
- Best to avoid or consult healthcare provider about safe consumption
-
Caffeine:
- May partially counteract some effects of propranolol
- Large amounts of caffeine should be avoided
Contraindications of Betacap TR 40 Capsule
Betacap TR 40 is absolutely contraindicated in patients with:
- Cardiogenic shock
- Sinus bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate)
- Greater than first-degree heart block
- Bronchial asthma or history of bronchospasm
- Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Uncontrolled heart failure
- Prinzmetal's angina (variant angina)
- Severe peripheral arterial circulatory disorders
- Metabolic acidosis
- Untreated pheochromocytoma
- Hypersensitivity to propranolol or any component of the formulation
Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category
- FDA Pregnancy Category: C (Risk cannot be ruled out)
- Risk-Benefit Assessment: Use only when potential benefits justify potential risks to the fetus
- Monitoring Requirements:
- Regular blood pressure and heart rate monitoring
- Periodic assessment of renal and hepatic function in long-term use
- Blood glucose monitoring in diabetic patients
- Evaluation of cardiac function in patients with heart disease
Diet & Lifestyle Advice
-
Dietary Recommendations:
- Follow a heart-healthy diet low in sodium, saturated fats, and cholesterol
- Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Maintain adequate hydration but consult with doctor about appropriate fluid intake
- Consider DASH diet principles for hypertension management
-
Exercise Considerations:
- Regular physical activity is beneficial but start gradually
- Be aware that propranolol may reduce maximum exercise capacity
- Heart rate will not increase as much during exercise ("blunted heart rate response")
- Monitor for excessive fatigue or breathlessness during activity
- Cool down properly after exercise to avoid blood pressure drops
-
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Maintain healthy weight or work toward weight loss if overweight
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking (smoking reduces the effectiveness of beta-blockers)
- Practice stress reduction techniques (meditation, deep breathing, yoga)
- Ensure adequate sleep and rest
-
Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring:
- Consider home blood pressure monitoring if recommended by your doctor
- Keep a log of readings to share with healthcare provider
- Learn proper technique for accurate measurements
Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine
Physicians prescribe Betacap TR 40 for several key reasons:
-
Proven Efficacy:
- Long history of clinical use with demonstrated effectiveness
- Strong evidence base supporting its use in various conditions
- Predictable dose-response relationship
-
Cardiovascular Protection:
- Reduces workload on the heart
- Provides 24-hour blood pressure control with once-daily dosing
- May offer protective effects post-myocardial infarction
-
Migraine Prevention:
- One of the first-line preventive treatments for migraines
- Can significantly reduce frequency, duration, and severity of attacks
- Well-tolerated compared to some newer migraine preventives
-
Patient Convenience:
- Once-daily dosing improves adherence
- Extended-release formulation provides consistent effects
- Available in various strengths for flexible dosing
-
Cost-Effectiveness:
- Generally affordable compared to newer agents
- Long-term safety profile is well-established
Substitutes & Alternative Medicines
Other Beta-Blockers
-
Selective Beta-1 Blockers:
- Metoprolol (Betaloc, Toprol XL)
- Atenolol (Tenormin)
- Bisoprolol (Concor)
- Nebivolol (Nebilet)
-
Non-Selective Beta-Blockers:
- Nadolol (Corgard)
- Carvedilol (Coreg) - also has alpha-blocking properties
- Labetalol (Trandate) - also has alpha-blocking properties
Alternative Medication Classes
-
For Hypertension:
- Calcium channel blockers (amlodipine, diltiazem)
- ACE inhibitors (enalapril, lisinopril)
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (losartan, valsartan)
- Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide)
-
For Migraine Prevention:
- Topiramate (Topamax)
- Amitriptyline
- Flunarizine
- CGRP antagonists (newer class)
-
For Anxiety Symptoms:
- SSRIs (sertraline, escitalopram)
- Benzodiazepines (for short-term use)
- Buspirone
Note: Substitution should only be done under medical supervision as different medications have different properties, side effects, and contraindications.
Storage Guidelines
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F)
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Store in the original container with the lid tightly closed
- Keep out of reach of children
- Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink
- Do not refrigerate or freeze
- Check the expiration date regularly and discard expired medication properly
- Do not remove the desiccant (if present) from the bottle
User Feedback & Patient Concerns
Common Patient Questions
-
"How long does it take to work?"
- For hypertension: Full effect may take 1-2 weeks
- For angina prevention: Effects usually noticeable within days
- For migraine prevention: May take 4-6 weeks to see significant benefit
-
"Will I need to take it forever?"
- Treatment duration depends on your condition and response
- Some conditions may require long-term therapy
- Never discontinue without consulting your doctor
-
"Can I drink alcohol while taking this medication?"
- Limited alcohol consumption may be permitted but discuss with your doctor
- Alcohol may enhance blood pressure-lowering effects
- Increased risk of dizziness when combined
-
"Will it affect my exercise ability?"
- Maximum heart rate and exercise capacity may be reduced
- Body adapts somewhat with regular exercise
- Benefits of exercise still significant despite lower maximum heart rate
Typical Patient Experiences
Most patients report good control of their condition with minimal side effects after an initial adjustment period. Fatigue and cold extremities are the most commonly reported side effects but often improve with time.
Quick Tips for Betacap TR 40
- Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels
- Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not crush or chew
- May be taken with food if stomach upset occurs
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly if prescribed for hypertension
- Keep a headache diary if taking for migraine prevention
- Wear warm clothing if experiencing cold hands and feet
- Inform all healthcare providers that you are taking this medication
- Carry medical identification indicating you take a beta-blocker
- Never abruptly stop taking this medication without medical supervision
Fact Box
Parameter | Information |
---|---|
Chemical Class | Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist |
Habit Forming | No |
Therapeutic Class | Anti-hypertensive, Anti-anginal, Anti-arrhythmic, Antimigraine |
Action Class | Non-selective beta-blocker |
Useful Diagnostic Tests
-
Before Starting Treatment:
- Complete blood count
- Comprehensive metabolic panel
- Lipid profile
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Liver function tests
- Kidney function tests
- Thyroid function tests (if indicated)
-
During Treatment:
- Regular blood pressure monitoring
- Heart rate monitoring
- Periodic liver and kidney function tests
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Lung function tests (if respiratory symptoms develop)
More Information & References
For more detailed information about propranolol and Betacap TR 40, consult reliable medical sources such as:
- British National Formulary (BNF)
- American Heart Association guidelines
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines
- Your healthcare provider or pharmacist
Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Individual responses to medication can vary. Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider immediately.
"Betacap TR 40 Capsule – For heart conditions, migraine prevention, and anxiety. Available online at RXDawa."
Betacap TR 40 Capsule – Heart & Migraine Medicine | Buy Online at RXDawa