Treatment

Beta-blockers may be prescribed if you have:

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease (CAD), including angina (pain or discomfort in the chest), or a history of heart attack
• Heart failure
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) such as atrial fibrillation
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
• Pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor in the adrenal gland
• Thyrotoxicosis—worsening of hyperthyroidism
• Essential tremor

Prevention

Beta-blockers may be prescribed to:

• Prevent migraine headaches
• Reduce your risk of death from heart attack
• Protect the heart if you have coronary artery disease
• Reduce your risk of stroke
• Protect the heart before surgery if you are at high risk of complications

Drug Interactions

There are many types of medications, herbs, and supplements that can affect how beta-blockers work. Since there are many different kinds of beta-blockers, drug interactions will vary depending on the specific medication that you are prescribed. Before you begin taking a beta-blocker, talk to your doctor about all of the prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and supplements that you are taking.

Other Potential Concerns

If you have certain conditions, you may not be able to take some types of beta-blockers. For example, if you have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), certain beta-blockers may make your symptoms worse. This class of drugs may also affect diabetes, asthma, heart block, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions. If you are pregnant or nursing, it is important to discuss the risks of taking a beta-blockers with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor about your condition and any concerns that you have about taking beta-blockers.

Side Effects

Side effects include but are not limited to:

• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Cold hands and feet
• Slow heart rate
• Weakness or lightheadedness
• Trouble sleeping
• Constipation
• Loss of sex drive
• Depression