Beta Blockers
What are beta blockers used for?
Beta blockers slow your heart rate and lower your blood pressure. Beta blockers are used to treat many health problems, such as:
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- migraine headaches
- glaucoma (as eyedrops)
- certain types of tremors
How do they work?
Beta blockers block the effects of the stress hormone epinephrine (adrenaline). Epinephrine makes the heart beat faster. By blocking epinephrine, beta blockers help the heart beat more slowly and with less force. This means that the heart does not have to work as hard. Some beta blockers also relax and open up blood vessels, which helps blood flow more easily through the blood vessels.
You may start with a low dosage and slowly increase it over time. It may take a few months for your body to adjust to this medicine and get the full effect. After your body adjusts, you will feel better and you may have a lower risk of a heart attack, other heart problems, or sudden death.
What else do I need to know about this medicine?
- Follow the directions that come with your medicine, including information about food or alcohol. Make sure you know how and when to take your medicine. Do not take more or less than you are supposed to take.
- Many medicines have side effects. A side effect is a symptom or problem that is caused by the medicine. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist what side effects the medicine may cause and what you should do if you have side effects.
- Try to get all of your prescriptions filled at the same place. Your pharmacist can help make sure that all of your medicines are safe to take together.
- Keep a list of your medicines with you. List all of the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all of the products you are taking.
If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information. Be sure to keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.
Written by Donald L. Warkentin, MD.
Adult Advisor 2012.1 published by RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2011-08-09
Last reviewed: 2011-08-05
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
© 2012 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
