Should Propranolol And Methimazole Dosages Be Increased To Manage Heart Palpitations Due To Hyperthyroidism?

Posted on Sat, 10 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 10 Mar 2018 Answered on

Thu, 7 Mar 2019 Last reviewed on

Question : hi, I have hyperthyroidism and I have been feeling very symptomatic the last 2 days. I currently take propranolol (20 mg twice a day) and methimazole (5 mg once a day.) I've been having heart palpitations frequently tonight, but my heart rate is fine. (in the 70's) I'm wondering if I am able to increase the dosage for my medication to help with these hyperthyroid symptoms for tonight until I can call my doc after work tomorrow?

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (-5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Propanolol can be increased by another dose.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Yes. You can increase the dose of propranolol by one more dose which helps palpitations.

Since Heart rate is still good you can do it. Also, check your BP. If it is not unusually high or low you can stay else please reach to ER.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (16 minutes later)

I Last took propanolol around 6:30 pm, will it be ok if I take 1 right now? it is 10:23 pm

Answered by Dr. V. N. S. Parinam (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

You can take one now.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Suma Parinam, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar