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Cutaneous reactions to propranolol (Inderal)
Acta Medica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Long-term propranolol use can cause psoriasiform skin eruptions, similar to practolol side effects. These rashes resolved after stopping propranolol and reappeared upon re-challenge, suggesting a beta-receptor blockade mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Psoriasiform cutaneous eruptions are rare adverse reactions to beta-blocking drugs.
- Propranolol, a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist, is commonly prescribed for various cardiovascular conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and characteristics of psoriasiform cutaneous eruptions associated with long-term propranolol therapy.
- To compare these reactions with previously reported practolol-induced exanthemas.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of six patients who developed psoriasiform eruptions during propranolol treatment.
- Clinical assessment, patient history, and skin biopsy analysis.
- Oral challenge tests with propranolol in five patients.
Main Results:
- Six patients developed psoriasiform eruptions after an average of 10 months of propranolol therapy.
- The eruptions resolved within 1-5 weeks after discontinuing propranolol.
- Four out of five patients experienced recurrence of skin eruptions upon oral propranolol challenge.
- Skin biopsies showed microscopic similarities to practolol-induced exanthemas.
Conclusions:
- Propranolol can induce psoriasiform cutaneous eruptions, mimicking practolol-induced reactions.
- The findings suggest a potential role of epidermal beta-receptor blockade in the pathogenesis.
- Close monitoring for reversible skin changes in patients on beta-blockers is recommended to prevent potential serious complications.