Beta-blockers

What does this medication do?

How does it work?
Beta-blocker is short for Beta-Adrenergic blocking drugs. Beta-blockers block the responses from your beta nerve receptors. This slows your heart rate and lowers your blood pressure to reduce the workload on your heart.

How should I take it?
Beta-blockers are available as tablets or capsules. Some are taken once daily, others are taken several times a day. Your doctor may prescribe them to lower your blood pressure or they may be given along with a diuretic (water pill) or other antihypertensive drug. Always, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how and when to take your medication.

What if I am taking other medicines?
Some medications can interact with beta-blockers, so always tell your doctor about any other medication including prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter or natural health products (vitamins and minerals, herbal remedies, homeopathic medicines, traditional medicines such as traditional Chinese medicines, probiotics and other products like amino acids and essential fatty acids). Some potential interactions with beta-blockers include medications to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, bronchitis and emphysema, as well as some anti-depressants and allergy shots.

What else should I tell my doctor?
If you have asthma, make sure your doctor is aware of it because beta-blockers may make your asthma worse. Tell your doctor if you have or have had any problems with your circulation or have diabetes. Never stop taking beta-blockers suddenly without first checking with your doctor.

What are some common side effects?
Beta-blockers can cause some side effects. The more common include drowsiness or fatigue, cold hands and feet, weakness or dizziness, dry mouth, eyes and skin. Tell your doctor if you experience these or any other side effects.

Combination treatments
Most people with high blood pressure need two or more medications, together with lifestyle changes, to lower their blood pressure. In some cases, two medications can be taken as a single tablet.

Lifestyle changes
Eating a healthy diet that is lower in fat, especially saturated and trans fats, being smoke free, limiting alcohol use, being physically active and reducing stress are also important in lowering the risk of heart disease. Talk to your health-care practitioner about how you can achieve these lifestyle changes.

For more information:
For warnings, recalls and other clinical drug information:

1. Health Canada Drugs and Health Products http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodpharma/index_e.html
2. Drugs and Health Products: Advisories, Warnings and Recalls http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/medeff/advisories-avis/index_e.html

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