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

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017