Beta Blockers Explained: How They Protect Your Heart
Written by Vic Allen · Owner
Metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol — how beta blockers lower blood pressure and heart rate by blocking adrenaline, plus the side effects and asthma warning you should know.
Beta Blockers refer to a class of prescription drugs that are used to treat high blood pressure, certain heart problems, and occasionally used to treat tremor and migraine headaches.
Metoprolol is the most common beta blocker I dispense, but there are many others: atenolol, bisoprolol, propranolol, to name a few.
Beta blockers do what the name suggests: they block beta receptors in blood vessels. When these receptors are blocked, the effects of the hormone epinephrine, commonly known as “adrenaline,” are decreased, which relaxes blood vessels, lowering heart rate and blood pressure.
Beta blockers help widen veins and arteries to improve blood flow, protecting against heart-related emergencies, arrhythmias, and angina pain.
Common side effects include cold hands and feet, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and some tiredness.
These drugs should be used with caution if you have asthma, as they may trigger an asthma attack.
Beta blockers are commonly prescribed with other medicines used for high blood pressure and heart problems. Use your pharmacist as a primary resource on the use of these combinations.