Practolol

Practolol (Eraldin, Dalzic, Praktol, Cardiol, Pralon, Cordialina, Eraldina, Teranol) is a selective beta blocker that has been used in the emergency treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. Practolol is no longer used as it is highly toxic despite the similarity of its chemical formula to propranolol. After its introduction, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, conjunctival scarring, fibrosis, metaplasia, and shrinkage developed in 27 patients as an adverse reaction to practolol. Rashes, nasal and mucosal ulceration, fibrous or plastic peritonitis, pleurisy, cochlear damage, and secretory otitis media also occurred in some cases. Three patients suffered profound visual loss though most retained good vision. Symptoms and signs improved on withdrawal of the drug, but reduction of tear secretion persisted in most patients. (British Medical Journal, March 15, 1975)