ModerateNon-selective beta blocker×Methylxanthine
Updated · Methodology
Mechanism
Propranolol is non-selective, blocks bronchial β2 receptors, and antagonises theophylline's bronchodilator effect. It triggers bronchospasm in COPD or asthma.
Symptoms
Wheezing, dyspnoea, cough, asthma exacerbation. Symptoms appear within hours or days of starting propranolol.
Management
Do not prescribe propranolol in asthma or COPD. For atrial fibrillation, hypertension, or essential tremor in obstructive lung disease, alternatives: cardioselective beta-blockers (bisoprolol, metoprolol, nebivolol) at low doses under pulmonary function monitoring. For migraine prophylaxis, propranolol alternatives: topiramate or candesartan.
Check the full regimen, not just this pair
Opens the checker with these two drugs prefilled. Add the rest of the regimen and recompute additive risks.
Summary of a multi-drug list →
Medicine list: everything you take in one place →
Sources
- FDA: Theo-24 (theophylline) prescribing information (2012)– ; DailyMed setid 7a108fa0-c230-475f-be93-6f864b98a410
- AEMPS: Ficha técnica: Propranolol (nº registro 89692), sección 4.5 (2026)– AEMPS, CIMA, nº registro 89692, revisión 05/2026, sección 4.5
- AEMPS: Ficha técnica: Teofilina (nº registro 45303), sección 4.5 (2024)– AEMPS, CIMA, nº registro 45303, revisión 12/2024, sección 4.5