Overview

Beta-blockers are used to lower blood pressure, treat heart failure and heart rhythm problems, and relieve angina symptoms, such as chest pain or pressure. And they may decrease the chance of a second heart attack in someone who has already had a heart attack. They also slow the heart rate and reduce strain on the heart muscle and blood vessels.

Most people do not have any side effects from beta-blockers. In rare cases, they can make asthma worse or make you feel tired. In some people, heart rate or blood pressure can drop too low. You may feel light-headed. This may happen if you stand up quickly. It usually gets better with time.

Before you start to take this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have severe asthma or frequent asthma attacks.

Examples include:

• Atenolol (Tenormin).
• Carvedilol.
• Metoprolol (Toprol).
• Propranolol (Inderal).

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Do not suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker. This can cause a heart attack or dangerous heart rhythm.
• Always tell your doctor if you think you are having a side effect from your medicine. If side effects are a problem with one medicine, you can try a different one.
• Check with your doctor before you use any over-the-counter medicines. Beta-blockers can interact with other medicines. Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines and natural health products you take.
• If you have diabetes, watch closely for symptoms of low blood sugar. Beta-blockers can hide your symptoms.
• If you have asthma, tell your doctor if you feel more short of breath. Beta-blockers can make your symptoms worse.
• Your doctor may ask you to take your pulse regularly to make sure your heart rate is not too slow.