Beta blockers slow down heart rate and the amount of blood pumped to the body; this action lowers blood pressure. For this reason, beta blockers are often used as a first-line agent for hypertension therapy. The American Heart Association (AHA) lists atenolol, metoprolol, and propranolol as commonly used to treat high blood pressure. The AHA also reports that beta blockers may be used alone or with other drugs to improve effectiveness.
Atenolol
For uncomplicated hypertension, that is high blood pressure without any other complications such as chest pain or kidney disease, atenolol is commonly prescribed. Billie Ann Wilson, Ph.D., Margaret Shannon, Ph.D., and Kelly Shields Pharm.D., authors of the 2010 Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide, discuss common side effects of beta blockers such as atenolol. Nausea and vomiting, headache, sore throat and sore muscles may be experienced. Bradycardia, a heart rate below 60 beats per minute, and low blood pressure are side effects that initiate other problems such as dizziness and fainting. Congestive heart failure is a possibility for some patients, especially in severe heart disease. Beta blockers like atenolol can cause bronchospasm or narrowing of the airways. Patients with history of asthma or other lung disease should use caution when taking beta blockers. Allergic reactions may also occur; rash, itching, shortness of breath, or swelling of tongue and airways should be reported to a physician immediately.
Metoprolol
Metoprolol is commonly prescribed for high blood pressure. Scott and White Hospital explains that metoprolol not only decreases the heart rate, but also causes vasodilation, relaxation of blood vessels. For this reason, metoprolol is used to control hypertension in patients with a history of coronary artery disease and heart attack. Vasodilation lowers blood pressure, which decreases the work load of the heart, and improves blood flow to the heart itself. These actions minimize symptoms of chest pain and reduce the risk of death following a heart attack. Side effects are the same as those for other beta blockers.
Propranolol
Beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure are often paired with other anti-hypertensive agents. Many patients do not have simple hypertension. Often, people also have other health problems like congestive heart failure or impaired kidney function. These conditions require a diuretic. Diuretics help remove fluid from the body, a process that can further lower blood pressure. Propranolol is combined with hydrochlorothiazide to benefit from the diuretic properties of this medication thus enhancing the effectiveness of the beta blocker.
Propranolol has the same common side effects of other beta blockers, however low blood pressure may be experienced not only when standing, but also when laying down. Patients should monitor heart rate and blood pressure daily and report symptoms of dizziness and syncope their physicians.
References
- "Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010"; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010
- American Heart Association: Blood Pressure Lowering Drugs
- Scott and White Hospital: Hypertension
