Propranolol: The “Calm Pill” Everyone’s Talking About — What You Need to Know

 

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok, listening to podcasts, or chatting with friends about ways to beat stage fright or calm your nerves, you’ve probably heard the word “propranolol.” This decades-old prescription drug is suddenly in the spotlight — but it’s not new at all. In fact, propranolol has been helping people manage heart issues since the 1960s. Let’s break down what this drug actually does, why it’s trending, and what you should know before you even think about trying it. 

Photo by: Kaboompics.com

 What Is Propranolol?

 Propranolol is a beta-blocker, meaning it works on the body’s sympathetic nervous system — the part of your body that handles your “fight or flight” response. It was first developed by British scientist Sir James Black in the 1960s and quickly became a game-changer for heart health. Doctors typically prescribe propranolol for conditions such as:

• Angina (chest pain) 
• Irregular or fast heartbeats (tachyarrhythmias)
• Preventing heart attacks 
• Migraine prevention
• Restless leg syndrome

• Hyperthyroid-related symptoms

 

Why People Are Taking It for Anxiety 

One of the biggest reasons propranolol has resurfaced in pop culture is its off-label use for performance anxiety. Musicians, public speakers, and students have quietly used propranolol for decades to take the edge off symptoms like: 

• Racing heart 

• Sweaty palms

• Facial flushing

 As far back as 1978, pharmacy students reported using it before presentations. More recently, social media influencers and celebrities have made it part of the conversation again. Here’s the catch: propranolol isn’t actually FDA-approved to treat anxiety. That’s because no large-scale clinical trial has been done to prove its effectiveness for this purpose. Trials are expensive and time-consuming, and because propranolol is already a low-cost generic medication, there’s little financial incentive for drug makers to fund new studies. 

 How Propranolol Works 

Photo by: Niklas Jeromin

Think of propranolol as a “mute button” for your heart’s stress response. It blocks beta-1 receptors found in your heart’s pacemaker cells (sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes). The result? A lower heart rate and less oxygen demand — meaning your heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Propranolol also affects beta-2 receptors in the smooth muscles of your airways and blood vessels. This can slightly narrow airways, which is why people with asthma or breathing issues must be extra careful — it can even interfere with emergency medications like epinephrine.

 Risks and Side Effects You Should Know About 

Even though propranolol sounds like a “miracle pill” for nerves, it’s not risk-free. Common side effects include:

 • Fatigue

 • Nightmares

 • Cold hands or feet 

More serious concerns, such as an increased risk of blood clots, have been flagged in some research. And remember taking too much propranolol can lead to dangerously low heart rates, blood pressure drops, and even bronchospasms or breathing difficulties. 

 The Bottom Line

 Propranolol may seem like a simple fix for stage fright or big presentations, but it’s still a prescription medication with real risks. Always talk to your healthcare provider before using it — especially if you have asthma, low blood pressure, or other health concerns. This isn’t a new “miracle trend” — just an old heart drug getting a lot of new attention.

Photo by: Fotos

If you suspect you are having a poison emergency, or you have a poison question, please call us at 1-800-222-1222.

Keeping South Texas Safe: The South Texas Poison Center at Your Service 

 The South Texas Poison Center (STPC) is here to help you stay safe with our 24/7 hotline (1-800-222-1222), free educational resources, and expert advice. Founded in 1995, we serve 47 counties across South Texas, helping both the public and healthcare providers with everything from poison information to prevention tips. Our team of certified Specialists in Poison Information (SPIs) — including nurses, pharmacists, and physicians — is always ready to assist, and many of them speak Spanish to better serve our diverse community. Prevention is a big part of what we do. We’re dedicated to reaching as many people as possible, whether through educational materials, health fairs, school programs, or community outreach. By partnering with local organizations and offering culturally relevant resources, we make sure that everyone in our region knows how to prevent poisoning and what to do in case of an emergency. Whether you need advice or just want to learn more, we’ve got you covered!

FDA Finds Low Levels of Cesium-137 in Imported Shrimp — Here’s What You Need to Know

In August, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it had detected a small amount of Cesium-137 in one shipment of frozen shrimp imported from Indonesia. Currently, the FDA has classified this as a “potential health concern.” 

So, what exactly is Cesium-137? 

It’s a radioactive substance that’s mainly a byproduct of nuclear power production. It’s also sometimes used in specialized medical and industrial equipment. While long-term, repeated exposure to Cesium-137 can raise the risk of cancer, the levels found in this shipment were low. 

To put it in perspective 

• The shipment contained 68 becquerels per kilogram of Cesium-137 (that’s how radioactivity is measured). 
• The FDA safety limit is 1,200 becquerels per kilogram — meaning the amount found was far below the threshold for danger. 
• In fact, it’s about the same amount of natural Cesium-137 you’d find in a banana. 

Why might Cesium-137 show up in the environment at all? Decades-old nuclear testing and accidents like Chernobyl left trace amounts in soil and water worldwide. That’s why tiny, harmless levels can sometimes be detected in food products. The bottom line: The FDA acted quickly, the shrimp never entered the U.S. food supply, and there’s no risk to consumers. 

 What You Can Do 

•  Buy from trusted sources: Stick with well-known grocery stores and brands that follow FDA guidelines. 
• Check FDA recall alerts: Visit FDA.gov to stay updated on recalls.

Poison Center Spotlight

Since its establishment in 1959, the Southeast Texas Poison Center has been a vital pillar in public health, evolving to serve 28 counties in the region. Staffed with a dedicated team of nurses, pharmacists, and medical doctors, the center is equipped to provide crucial poison information and assistance to community members facing poison-related emergencies. From drug and plant information to snake and chemical inquiries, drug identification, and general medical guidance, the center is a comprehensive hub for health and safety. In 2023 alone, the center fielded an impressive 46,769 calls from both community members and first responders.

Cannabis and Seniors: What to Know Before You Try It

 

More adults over 50 are using cannabis — and not just for fun. A 2024 National Poll on Healthy Aging from the University of Michigan found that older adults use cannabis in many forms:

• Smoking it
• Drinking it in tea or other drinks
• Eating edibles (like gummies or cookies)
• Rubbing it on the skin as creams or lotions

Why do people use it?

• To relax or feel good (81%)
• To help with sleep (68%)
• To ease pain (63%)
• To cope with stress, anxiety, or depression (53%)

Cannabis can help in some cases — but there are important safety tips, especially for older adults.

Cannabis Use Is Growing — and So Are ER Visits

From 2005 to 2019, California saw a 1,804% increase in cannabis-related emergency room visits. Most of the increase was among people ages 50–64.

One reason is that cannabis is now legal in many states. This can make it seem harmless. But today’s cannabis often has much higher THC — the chemical that makes you feel “high” — than it did decades ago.

Edibles: Easy to Overdo

Edibles (like gummies, brownies, or chocolates) can take longer to work than smoking. This delay can cause people to take more than they should. Too much can cause:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Fast heart rate

Watch Out for Medication Mix-Ups

Cannabis can interact with both prescription and over-the-counter medicines. This can increase side effects like dizziness, confusion, and even dangerous falls.

Common prescriptions that may interact with cannabis:

• Anti-anxiety medicines
• Sedatives (help you sleep)
• Pain medicines
• Blood thinners (help prevent clots)

Over-the-counter medicines to use with caution:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Allergy medicines (antihistamines)
• Cold medicines with pseudoephedrine
• Melatonin

Always ask your doctor or pharmacist before mixing cannabis with other medicines.

Driving Safety

Some older adults report driving within two hours of using cannabis. Experts say that’s risky. Cannabis can slow how fast you react and affect judgment.

Health tip: Wait at least 4–6 hours before driving after using cannabis.

Bottom Line

Cannabis may help some older adults, but it’s not risk-free.

• Talk to your healthcare provider first.
• Start with a low dose.
• Go slow — especially with edibles.
• Never assume “natural” means “safe.”

With the right information, you can make choices that help you stay healthy and safe.

Don't Wait- Call Now

If you think someone has been exposed to a poison, don't wait. Call the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222 immediately. For unconsciousness, breathing difficulties, or seizures, dial 911.

With expert guidance, multilingual support, and round-the-clock availability, the TPCN is a trusted lifeline for every Texan. 

The TikTok “Tan Lines” Trend Is Putting Teens at Risk — Here’s What Parents Need to Know

 

It’s summer, which means sun, school break, and — if you’re a parent — probably a lot of TikTok in your teenager’s daily routine. But while some trends are harmless dance challenges or funny filters, others can be dangerous. One of the latest to go viral? The “tan lines trend”.

What Is the “Tan Lines Trend”?

This trend encourages teens to tan under extremely high UV conditions just to get visible tan lines — all for looks. Many teens are now using weather apps and UV trackers to find the time of day when the sun’s rays are strongest, aiming for a deeper, faster tan. Some TikTok users have even recorded themselves tanning during UV index levels of 13, which is considered extremely dangerous.

Why This Trend Is So Concerning

This tanning obsession comes with serious health risks. Here’s what everyone should understand:

·        UV rays cause skin damage. They don’t just give you a tan — they damage DNA, age the skin prematurely, and can lead to skin cancer.

·        Sunburns are not just burns. They’re signs that your skin has been overwhelmed by UV radiation, triggering inflammation and long-term harm.

·        Teens are especially vulnerable. Because sun damage accumulates over time, habits formed now can lead to serious consequences later.

Understanding UV Radiation

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comes from the sun, and the two main types that affect our health are UV-A and UV-B:

·        UV-A: Penetrates deep into the skin and contributes to aging and wrinkles.

·        UV-B: Responsible for sunburn and direct DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer.

The EPA’s UV Index helps you track UV levels in your area (by zip code or current location). The scale goes from 1 (Low) to 11+ (Extreme). Anything above 6 means you need to take serious precautions if you're spending time outside.

Common Myths About Tanning

Let’s clear up some quick misconceptions:

🚫 “A base tan protects me.” False. A tan is already a sign of skin damage.

🚫 “You can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day.” False. Up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin on overcast days.

🚫 “Only fair-skinned people need sunscreen.” Also, false. All skin types can experience sun damage and skin cancer.

What a Sunburn Actually Does to Your Body

Sunburn is more than just red, painful skin. It’s your body’s alarm bell.

When your skin gets too much UV exposure, your body increases blood flow to the area to repair damaged cells. This causes swelling, redness, blistering, and peeling. Over time, this damage adds up and increases your risk of:

·        Melanoma

·        Basal cell carcinoma

·        Squamous cell carcinoma

These are three of the most common skin cancers — all linked to UV radiation.

How to Protect Yourself (and Your Teen)

Good news: protecting your skin is easy with a few daily habits.

✅ Choose the Right Sunscreen:

·        Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher

·        Reapply every two hours (more often if swimming or sweating)

·        Look for mineral sunscreens (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) if you have sensitive skin

🧢 Dress Smart:

·        Wear long sleeves, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses

·        Stick to the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

⏰ Set Reminders:

·        Use a phone timer to remind yourself or your teen to reapply sunscreen

·        Encourage checking the EPA UV Index each morning before outdoor plans

A Final Word for Parents and Teens

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look good or feel confident — but there’s nothing healthy about chasing tan lines under extreme sun exposure. Skin damage is cumulative, permanent, and preventable. Teaching sun safety now lays the foundation for lifelong skin health.

So, let’s raise awareness, bust some myths, and maybe even make sunscreen the next TikTok trend. Because nothing looks better than healthy, protected skin — no filter required.

Meet the Texas Panhandle Poison Center: Science That Saves Lives

Ever wonder who’s on the other end of the line when you call a poison helpline? In the Texas Panhandle, it’s the experts at the Texas Panhandle Poison Center (TPPC) — a team of science-based professionals working 24/7 to keep people safe.

Part of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Amarillo, TPPC has been helping Texans since 1994 by providing fast, accurate info when it comes to poison exposures. Whether it’s a curious toddler who got into the cleaning supplies or a medication mix-up, TPPC’s trained nurses and pharmacists (called Poison Information Specialists) are just a call away at 1-800-222-1222.

TPPC covers a huge area — 71 counties in northwest Texas, serving more than 1.4 million people. And they don’t just answer emergency calls. They also run science-based outreach programs in schools and communities to help prevent poisonings before they happen.

One of their coolest projects? Medication Cleanout™ (MCO) — a nationally recognized take-back program that helps people safely dispose of old or unused meds. It keeps harmful drugs out of the wrong hands and out of the environment. Since 2009, TPPC has collected over 55,000 pounds of medication through these events!

So, if you're into science, health, or public safety, TPPC is a real-world example of how STEM careers make a direct impact. Whether it's research, outreach, or emergency response, this team is all about using knowledge to protect people and the planet.

The Silent Threat After the Storm: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Texas

 

June marks the beginning of hurricane season in Southeast Texas. Once the destructive forces of a hurricane pass, communities are focused on restoring power, cleaning up debris, and rebuilding homes. But amid the visible damage lies an invisible threat that claims lives every year in storm-hit areas: carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Why Carbon Monoxide Is a Post-Storm Danger

Power outages drive many people to use portable generators, gas stoves, charcoal grills, or vehicles to power essentials or provide heat. While these tools can be lifesavers, improper use in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces can turn deadly.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. When inhaled, it displaces oxygen in the bloodstream, which can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage, or death within minutes.

Real Risks in Southeast Texas

After hurricanes, especially in hot, humid conditions:

• Generators may be placed in garages, under carports, or next to open windows — all unsafe.
• Residents may cook indoors with grills or use fuel-powered tools inside to begin repairs.
• People may sit in idling cars for air conditioning without proper ventilation.

All of these situations have been linked to spikes in CO poisoning across Southeast Texas in previous storms.

Warning Signs of CO Poisoning

Early symptoms can mimic heat exhaustion or the flu, making it easy to miss the danger:

• Headache
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion or weakness
• Chest pain
• Loss of consciousness

If multiple people in a home experience these symptoms at once — especially without a known illness — it may be CO exposure. Get fresh air immediately and call 911.

Protect Your Family: Key Safety Tips

• Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages or sheds.
• Place generators at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents.
• Don’t use charcoal grills or gas stoves indoors for heating or cooking.
• Install battery-powered CO detectors in your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may be using unsafe heat or power sources.

Spread the Word

CO poisoning is 100% preventable — but only if people know the risks. As cleanup and recovery continue, it’s critical to share this message across neighborhoods, churches, schools, and workplaces.

Stay safe. Stay informed. And help your community avoid tragedy in the wake of the storm.

 

Protecting Texans from Harm: The Vital Work of the Texas Poison Center Network

A Lifesaving Resource for All Texans

Every day, Texans face unexpected encounters with substances that could pose serious risks to their health. Whether it's a child swallowing household cleaner, a reaction to a plant or insect sting, or a medication mix-up, poisonings can happen in the blink of an eye. Thankfully, the Texas Poison Center Network (TPCN) is here to help- 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Accessible by calling 1-800-222-1222, the TPCN provides immediate, expert medical advice to anyone who suspects a poisoning or needs information about potentially hazardous substances. 

An Extensive Network with Statewide Research

The TPCN is composed of six regional poison centers, each hosted by major hospitals across Texas. These centers are interconnected through a robust telecommunications network, ensuring that no call goes unanswered- even if one center is overwhelmed or temporarily closed. 

In fact, when Hurricane Ike forced the Southeast Texas center to shut down in 2008, other centers seamlessly picked up the slack, keeping Texans safe without delay or disruption. 

Fast, Free, and Expert Help

With over 230,000 calls annually, the TPCN assists both the public and medical professionals. More than 32% of calls come from doctors, nurses, EMS providers, and pharmacists seeking toxicology advice. And for the general public, 87% of poison exposure cases are managed entirely at home, thanks to guidance from specially trained nurses, doctors, and pharmacists. This approach saves Texans over $85.5 million in avoided healthcare costs every year. 

Multilingual, Accessible, and Always Available

No matter your language or ability, TPCN ensures that you can get the help you need. Interpretation services are available in over 160 languages, and the system is TTY-compatible for those who are deaf and hard of hearing. Callers will never hear a busy signal- calls are automatically routed to the next available poison center expert. 

What to Expect When You Call

When you call, specialists may ask for:

• Your name, zip code, and phone number
• Name and age of the exposed person
• Product name and amount involved
• Medical history, medications, or allergies 

A Partner in Public Health

The TPCN isn't just for emergencies- it also plays a critical role in public health surveillance, working alongside the CDC to monitor and report trends like foodborne illnesses, disease outbreaks, or potential bioterrorist threats. Because of this role, TPCN is exempt from certain HIPAA privacy regulations, allowing it to act quickly and effectively in crisis situations. 

More Than Just Emergency Help

In addition to emergency support, the TPCN offers education and resources on:

• Drug identification and Information
• Environmental Hazards like lead, carbon monoxide, and radiation
• Medical and Occupational Toxicology 
• Poison Prevention and Safety
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Exposure Risks

Know the Forms of Poison

Poisons can appear in many forms:

• Solids (e.g., pills)
• Liquids (e.g., household cleaners)
• Sprays (e.g., disinfectants)
• Gases (e.g., carbon monoxide)

A toxin, by contrast, is a naturally occurring poison from a plant, animal, or insect. 

Don't Wait- Call Now

If you think someone has been exposed to a poison, don't wait. Call the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222 immediately. For unconsciousness, breathing difficulties, or seizures, dial 911.

With expert guidance, multilingual support, and round-the-clock availability, the TPCN is a trusted lifeline for every Texan. 

Can Vitamin A Prevent Measles? What You Need to Know

As of April 8, 2025, Texas has reported 505 measles cases, with most occurring in the Panhandle and South Plains regions. With numbers like these, it's no surprise that people are talking about ways to protect themselves and their families. One topic that keeps popping up? Vitamin A.

So can vitamin A help prevent measles? Let's break down what the experts and research really say.

The Role of Vitamin A in Measles

In the past measles outbreaks, health experts learned more about how vitamin A affects illness. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF said that vitamin A can help kids recover from measles. This is especially true of children who don't have enough vitamin A in their bodies. 

Health groups like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and WHO say a person is low in vitamin A if they have less than 10 micrograms per deciliter in their blood. Research done in places like Indonesia, Africa, and Asia between 1983 and 1992 found that giving vitamin A to vitamin-deficient kids with measles lowered the risk of dying by 30 to 50%. 

Is Vitamin A Deficiency a Problem in the U.S.? 

Thankfully, vitamin A deficiency is rare in the United States. Most people get enough from their everyday diets. Foods rich in vitamin A include:

• Leafy Greens (like Spinach and Kale)
• Orange veggies (such as carrots and sweet potatoes)
• Dairy products (like milk, eggs, and cheese)
• Meats and Fish

Most people in the U.S. get enough vitamin A from their food. But, doctors still give vitamin A to kids who have measles. This treatment should always be guided by a healthcare provider to make sure the right, safe amount is used. While vitamin A might help treat measles in some cases, research shows it does not prevent someone from getting measles in the first place. 

Can Vitamin A Prevent Measles?

Here's the bottom line: No, vitamin A doesn't prevent measles. During a 2019 measles outbreak turned to cod liver oil- a natural source of vitamin A- as an alternative. Despite their commitment to taking cod liver oil regularly, measles still spread in those areas. This shows that vitamin A is not a substitute for vaccination.

A Word of Caution: Too Much Vitamin A Can Be Harmful 

Vitamin A is a type of vitamin that your body stores in fat. Because it stays in your body, too much of it can build up over time. When a doctor tells you how much to take, it's usually safe.  But taking too much- especially for a few weeks- can be harmful. 

Signs of Vitamin A Overload in Adults

• Headaches 
• Mood swings or confusion
• Blurry vision 
• Dry or peeling skin

In Babies:

• Bulging soft spots on the head

In severe cases, liver damage and/or brain swelling can occur.

Final Thoughts

While vitamin A plays a supportive role in helping kids recover from measles, it is not a replacement for the measles vaccine. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles is through vaccination. 

Have questions about vitamin A, the MMR vaccine, or measles prevention? Contact your local health provider or call the Texas Poison Center Network at 1-800-222-1222- we're here to help, 24.7.