Beta-blockers

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 any type of lung disease
heart disease
kidney disease
diabetes particularly if you have frequent episodes of low blood sugar
allergic reaction to any medication

Your GP can advise you about which medicine to use if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

It's important not to stop taking beta-blockers without seeking your GP's advice. In some cases suddenly stopping the medicine may make your condition worse.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for beta-blockers

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

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