Beta-blockers
Introduction
Beta-blockers (beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents) work mainly bydecreasing the activity of the heart by blocking the action of hormones like adrenaline. Beta-blockers are prescription-only medicines (POMS) , which means they can only be prescribed by a GP or another suitably qualified healthcare professional. Examples of commonly used beta-blockers include: atenolol (Tenormin) bisoprolol (Cardicor, Emcor) carvedilol metoprolol (Betaloc, Lopresor) nebivolol (Nebilet) propranolol (Inderal) This topic covers: Uses Who can take beta-blockers Interactions with other medicines Side effects Missed or extra doses
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on
Introduction
Read about beta-blockers (beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents medications) used to treat conditions such as angina, heart failure and high blood pressure.
Uses forbeta-blockers
Beta-blockersmay be used to treat: angina chest pain caused by narrowing of the arteries supplying the heart heart failure failure of the heart to pump enough blood around the body atrial fibri
Who can take beta-blockers
Before taking beta-blockers, make sure your doctor is aware of any other conditions you have,as they may not be suitable to use. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have a history of: asthma or
Interactions with other medicines
Beta-blockers, including beta-blocker eye drops, can interact with other medicines, altering the effects of one of the medicines. Read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicineto
Side effects of beta-blockers
Most people taking beta-blockers have either no or very mild side effects that become less troublesome with time. Contact your GP ifyou're experiencing symptoms that affect your everyday life. They c
Missed or extra doses
Contact your GP or call NHS 111if you accidentally take one or more extra doses of beta-blockers. They'll be able to advise you about what to do. Most beta-blockers are taken once a day, apart from c
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products