Millions of people in the United States use beta-blockers to treat high blood pressure and other heart ailments, according to Consumer Reports. These medications also may effectively treat a wide variety of other medical conditions. People interested in this type of medication should talk to a doctor about the risks and side effects.
Function
Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of a hormone called epinephrine, also referred to as adrenaline. This causes the heart to beat more slowly and softly, improves the blood flow in the blood vessels and reduces blood pressure.
Uses
Beta-blockers can prevent or treat a number of medical conditions, including certain types of tremors, hyperthyroidism, generalized anxiety disorder, migraines, glaucoma, heart attacks, chest pain, heart failure, irregular heart rhythm and high blood pressure. In most cases, however, beta-blockers are not prescribed until other medications prove ineffective at treating the condition. Doctors also sometimes prescribe beta-blockers in combination with other medications.
Types
Different types of beta-blockers may have slightly different effects on the body. Doctors determine which type of beta-blocker to prescribe based upon the patient’s medical background and the specific medical condition. Examples of beta-blockers include propranolol, nebivolol, nadolol, metaprolol, carvediolol, bisoprolol, atenolol and acebutolol.
Side Effects
Many people do not experience any side effects when taking beta-blockers, according to the Mayo Clinic. Those that do experience side effects generally feel fatigue, dizziness, weakness or get cold hands. Others may experience difficulty sleeping, loss of sex drive, depression or shortness or breath, but these side effects are less common.
Cost
In June 2009, the cost of beta-blockers ranged from less than $10 a month to more than $200 a month, according to Consumer Reports. Most types of beta-blockers are available as generics, which may save those taking the medication on a regular basis a considerable amount of money. Consumer Reports notes that the generic forms of beta-blockers prove either as effective or more effective than their brand-name counterparts.
Considerations
People with diabetes, asthma or chronic lung disease need to be particularly cautious when taking beta-blockers, warns the American Academy of Family Physicians. These medications can mask some of the warning signs of low blood sugar in diabetic patients and cause severe asthma attacks in those with asthma or chronic lung disease. People with these conditions should work carefully with a doctor to safely take these medications.
Warning
Individuals taking beta-blockers who experience difficulty breathing, weight gain, chest pain, a very slow heartbeat or swelling in the hands, feet or legs should call a doctor immediately. Taking a beta-blocker with other medications may cause dangerous drug interactions, so people should always talk to a doctor about their current medications before using a beta-blocker.
