Beta Blocker Side Effects

Beta blocker, represented as β-blocker, is a group of drugs that are used for the treatment of certain chronic health conditions. To mention a few, beta blockers are recommended for the management of high blood pressure or hypertension, chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm, heart attacks, migraines, bronchoconstriction, anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, glaucoma, tremor and uterine contractions. In medical terms, Beta blockers are also referred to as beta-adrenergic blocking agents. Let's discuss in brief about beta blocker working and beta blocker side effects.

Working of Beta Blockers

Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of epinephrine and neoepinephrine hormones from coming into contact with the beta receptors of the body. Beta receptors are of three types, namely, beta-1 (β1), beta-2 (β2) and beta-3 (β3). They are located in different parts of the body such as fat cells, arteries, lungs, heart, kidney, brain, uterus, etc. Beta blockers basically act on β1 and β2 receptors, which in turn help to dilate blood vessels, reduce blood pressure and heartbeat rate. There are several types of beta blockers, some act only on the heart and blood vessels, while others affect the heart, blood vessels and air passages.

Side Effects of Beta Blockers

The effectiveness of beta blockers depends on the responses and/or sensitivity of the individual towards the medication and the dosage. Considering this, a particular beta blocker drug of a specific dosage may be safe for a person, while it may cause potential health effects in another person. That's why, medical history and health check-up of an individual are very important to determine the effective dosage of beta blockers.

Though beta blockers are best medications for some diseases, they can worsen other health conditions like very low blood pressure, diabetes and asthma. On the safety note, the physician is the best person who will determine whether beat blockers are safe for a particular patient or not. Following are some of the reported side effects of beta blockers:

• Increased fatigue and tiredness is one of the most commonly observed side effects of beta blockers.
• After administration of beta blocker drugs, an individual may suffer from cold hands and feet.
• Beat blockers may also cause dry skin, mouth and eyes.
• Abnormal bowel movement, particularly diarrhea is also a side effect of beta blocker medications.
• They can cause anxiety and depression in many people.
• Another common effect of beta blockers is swelling and inflammation of the hands and feet.
• Beta blockers may result in abnormal blood sugar levels, usually a sudden increase in the blood glucose.
• Many people experience breathing problems like difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath and wheezing after taking beta blockers.

Some of the rare side effects of beta blockers include slow heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, sleep disturbance, constipation, skin rash,vomiting, stomach cramps and sudden weight gain. Speaking about the side effect of beta blocker eye drop, it may cause blurred vision and temporary eye discomfort. In addition, if beta blockers are taken with other medications, their effects may be hampered or enhanced. In order to prevent unpredictable beta blocker side effects, it is always advisable to consult and seek advice from a qualified physician prior to taking the medications.