Propranolol, anxiety and reconsolidation of the memories

So, recently, I became aware that there are some recent research and innovative applications of propranolol regarding the healing of PTSD/Anxiety symptoms.

I have read some research materials, and it appears that the main mechanism of healing is achieved by taking propranolol approximately one hour before retrieving a disturbing memory. It is believed that during the active period of the medication, the emotional response associated with the memory is either removed or reduced when the memory is reconsolidated.

Does anyone have any experience with this? What are your thoughts on whether this could be a viable approach to healing?

Thanks in advance!

PS: Also I'm also adding ChatGPT response below on this matter:

How propranolol can be used to heal ptsd and heal negative emotional response from memories?

Propranolol is a medication primarily used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. While it is not approved by regulatory authorities as a specific treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), some studies have explored its potential use in reducing the emotional intensity associated with traumatic memories.

The concept behind using propranolol for PTSD is based on the idea that the drug may interfere with the process of memory reconsolidation, which is the stabilization and re-storage of memories when they are recalled. By administering propranolol shortly after a traumatic event or during the recollection of traumatic memories, the hope is that it may disrupt the emotional response associated with those memories, potentially reducing the intensity of PTSD symptoms.

It's important to note that the use of propranolol for PTSD is still a subject of ongoing research, and its efficacy and safety for this purpose are not yet fully established. The results from studies have been mixed, and more research is needed to determine its long-term effects, optimal dosing, and potential benefits and risks.

What might be the mechanism of propranolol healing effect with regard to memory reconsolidation

The exact mechanism by which propranolol may affect memory reconsolidation is not fully understood. However, there are a few proposed theories regarding its potential healing effects on traumatic memories and emotional responses:

Noradrenergic modulation: Propranolol is a beta-blocker that primarily acts by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors. One theory suggests that traumatic memories and their associated emotional responses involve heightened activity in the noradrenergic system, which is involved in the stress response. By blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, propranolol may reduce the release of norepinephrine, a stress hormone, and thereby interfere with the emotional consolidation of traumatic memories.

Disruption of memory reconsolidation: When memories are recalled, they enter a labile state known as reconsolidation, during which they are susceptible to modification or disruption. Propranolol, when administered around the time of memory retrieval, may interfere with the reconsolidation process, weakening the emotional intensity associated with the memory. This disruption may lead to a reduction in the negative emotional response to the memory over time.

Contextual memory impairment: Another proposed mechanism is that propranolol may impair the contextual memory associated with traumatic events. Contextual memory refers to the details and environmental cues associated with a particular memory. By disrupting the contextual memory, propranolol may weaken the emotional response tied to the traumatic event.

It's important to note that while these theories provide possible explanations for the effects of propranolol on memory reconsolidation, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and confirm its effectiveness in treating PTSD or reducing the emotional impact of traumatic memories.