Names and Examples of Beta Blockers:
- Betapace (sotalol)
- Blocadren (timolol)
- Cartol (carteolol)
- Corgard (nadolol)
- Inderal (propranol)
- Kerlone (betaxolol)
- Lopressor, Toprol (metoprolol)
- Sectral (acebutolol)
- Tenormin (atenolol)
- Zebeta (bisoprolol)
How They Work:
Beta blockers lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. They also help the heart to beat more regularly and more efficiently by relaxing the tone of the heart muscle. They are also used for angina and chest pain.
Beta blockers lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. They also help the heart to beat more regularly and more efficiently by relaxing the tone of the heart muscle. They are also used for angina and chest pain.
Possible Side Effects:
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Headache (when first beginning to take beta blockers)
- Muscle aches and fatigue
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
- Difficult breathing
- Chest pain
- Slow heart rate
- Swelling of the feet or hands
- Weight gain
- Bleeding
- Sore throat and fever
Points to Remember:
- Check your blood pressure and pulse rate daily and keep a written log.
- Do not suddenly stop taking beta blockers. If you need to stop taking them, work with your doctor to gradually taper your dose down.
- Beta blockers can make you drowsy. Do not drive a car, operate machinery or drink alcohol until you know how this drug affects you.
- If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember it, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Possible Drug Interactions:
- Beta blockers can alter the effectiveness of many drugs. Be sure all of your doctors and your pharmacist are aware of all the medications that have been prescribed for you.
- Do not take any over the counter medications without checking with your doctor or pharmacist.
- If you have a slow release form of medication, always take the capsule whole. Do not break it open.
