Admin Table of Contents
Why would a doctor give you beta-blockers?
Beta blockers block the release of the stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline. They are widely prescribed for angina, heart failure and some heart rhythm disorders, and to control blood pressure. They are usually tolerated well without significant side effects.
What is the most commonly prescribed beta blocker?
As seen in figure 1, the most commonly prescribed beta-blocker medications are metoprolol succinate and metoprolol tartrate. While both drugs are used to treat heart-related issues, their applications are very different.
How long can you stay on beta-blockers?
Guidelines recommend beta blocker therapy for three years, but that may not be necessary. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine, also called adrenaline. Taking beta blockers reduces your heart rate and blood pressure. This eases the workload on your heart and improves blood flow.
What is the most common side effect of beta-blockers?
The most common side effects of beta-blockers are: Fatigue and dizziness. Beta-blockers slow down your heart rate. This can trigger symptoms associated with low blood pressure (hypotension).
What is the safest beta blocker to take?
Cardioselective. A number of beta blockers, including atenolol (Tenormin) and metoprolol (Toprol, Lopressor), were designed to block only beta-1 receptors in heart cells. Since they don’t affect beta-2 receptors in blood vessels and the lungs, cardioselective beta blockers are safer for people with lung disorders.
When is the best time to take a beta blocker?
How to Take Beta-Blockers. You can take them in the morning, at meals, and at bedtime. When you take them with food, you may have fewer side effects because your body absorbs the drug slower.
What medications Cannot be taken with beta blockers?
While on beta-blockers, you should also avoid eating or drinking products that have caffeine or taking over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, antihistamines, and antacids that contain aluminum. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, because it can decrease the effects of beta-blockers.