Use of Inderal for Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome

  I have been using Inderal PRN for about 10 years. I was dx with prolapse mitral valve after reporting symptoms of occassional tachycardia, nausea, vertigo, weakness, and diaphoresis - usually in the middle of the night and almost always when I am ill.  I was advised by my cardiologist to take inderal when I first felt that the symptoms would start (I usually can tell at least a few minutes prior). I was originally told to take 40mg but I never felt comfortable with that and have been using 10mg with success in that I avoid the symptoms or have symptoms lasting only a few minutes.
  I am in a new city and asked for a refill of inderal today and this is the first time I have had an internist say it is inappropriate and unnecessary. What is your opinion?

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

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Dear Pat, thank you for your question.  I don't believe that taking beta blockers (inderal) intermittently for any condition is helpful.  With mitral valve prolapse, you may experience palpitations, shortness of breath, or chest pain that are not harmful.   With MVP, these symptoms are a nuisance and may be caused by an abnormal neural connection to the heart.  The inderal may have worked for you in the past, so if you are not satisfied with your new doctor's decision, then you should get a second opinion.  However, I think you will do fine with or without inderal.
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