Beta blockers are types of medications used to treat high blood pressure by blocking the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline) and decreasing both the rate and force of the heartbeat; these kinds of medications also lessen vascular constriction, making it easier for the blood to flow throughout the body. Beta blockers include Bystolic (generic form: nebivolol), Sectral (acebutolol), Lopressor ( metoprolol) and Tenormin ( atenolol), among others.
Serious Side Effects
Using beta blockers to control high blood pressure can cause a variety of serious side effects, all of which must be reported to a physician immediately. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most commonly reported effects include abnormal weakness and fatigue, wheezing, blurred vision, cold feet and/or hands, chest tightness, confusion, sweating, difficulty breathing, lightheadedness and dizziness. Less common effects include chest and leg pain, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), bradycardia (slowed heartbeat) and fainting. Rare side effects include vomiting and nausea, blood in the urine, decreased appetite, high blood pressure, and swelling in the legs, fingers or face. Other possible side effects include bleeding gums, fever, night blindness, severe mood changes, hallucinations, rapid weight gain, a tingling sensation in the feet or hands, and abnormal, excessive weight loss.
Temporary Side Effects
As you begin to ingest beta blockers, some less serious, temporary side effects may develop; these should only be reported to a doctor if they persist for several days or weeks, including erection pain, hair loss, depression, impotence, decreased libido, dry mouth, irritability, loss of appetite, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, diarrhea, whirling sensations, decreased interest in normal activities and vertigo.
Overdose Side Effects
Overdosing on beta blockers can cause severe side effects that require immediate emergency treatment, including slurred speech, severe anxiety, shakiness, coma, seizures, irregular breathing, headaches and extreme fatigue. Depending on the type of beta blocker used, others may include decreased motor skills, dilated neck veins, acute nightmares and noisy, raspy breathing.
