Propranolol for panic attack - safe in pregnancy?

[ShalomToYouJackie]

Had a panic attack this evening and couldn't calm myself down, I took a Propranolol which I used to use for regular panic attacks although I've not had one for about a year.

I should've checked before hand but I was in a bit of a state, are they safe for use in pregnancy? Just as a one off?

I wouldn't trust anyone's medical opinion on an online forum OP especially since you're pregnant. Everyone will try to help by giving you their set of advise but for the sake of your and your baby's health, I'd call 111 just for their opinion and to be on the safe side.

Hope you're feeling better now. Panic attacks are abs terrible but you're stronger than them... Always!!!

No you’re not supposed to take them in pregnancy at least without consulting a doctor first. I had a regular prescription before becoming pregnant and have been repeatedly told by medical professionals not to take them until after baby is born. I wouldn’t take anymore without medical advice

The NHS website says it's not thought to be harmful in pregnancy and I was in such a state but now feeling even worse. I was prescribed them to take when I was having a panic attack and had tried mindfulness and deep breathing etc but didn't know what else to do 😒

I'll ring 111 now

Please keep us posted and let us know how you get on with 111. Most likely everything will be OK but it'll give you peace of mind once you speak to them.

Please don't worry, you have only had one . I too took one during pregnancy as I didnt feel I had any other alternative. I felt horrible afterwards and didn't do it again. In any event , they aren't known to be super harmful( based on what I have read) like caffeine or alcohol, but I know they are not recommended for pregnant women . As a previous post advised, book an appointment with your gp , they may be able to discuss with you alternative ways to manage any attacks.

There aren't many medications that are harmful after just one dose so don't panic about any potential harm from the tablet you have taken but do get medical advice before taking it again. Also, reach out for help if your panic attacks are returning in pregnancy.

One tabletops highly unlikely to do any harm. Most medications aren't recommended for pregnant women as they cannot ethically be tested on pregnant women so there is no way of knowing the effects. Call your doctor tomorrow about getting alternative help for your panic attacks but try not to worry too much about one tablet. Hope you're ok x

Tablet*

I have come across propranolol being prescribed during pregnancy though under the review of Obstetric Medicine consultant. It's cousin, Labetolol, is used regularly for hypertension in pregnancy, so whilst it is highly unlikely that a one-off dose is going to be harmful, I would still contact GP if I am in your shoes to discuss other safer alternatives in case of further panic attacks. Discuss the pros&cons and make an informed decision. Hope you feel better and enjoy your pregnancy!

Thank you for commenting, you all really reassured me, I felt like such a bad mum already! 111 said not to worry and I've made an telephone appointment with my GP.

My anxiety has been really bad since I found out I was pregnant but that was more worrying than panic attacks, completely came out of nowhere yesterday.

Thanks again