Beta-blockers
Beta - blockers block the action of adrenaline – a hormone which makes the heart beat faster and more vigorously. Beta-blockers help to prevent the heart from beating too quickly and too forcefully at times such as when you are exercising or feeling stressed. Beta-blockers are usually added to other drugs to lower the blood pressure further.
Sometimes beta-blockers work too well and the heart rate can become too slow. So it is worth checking your pulse regularly. Aim for a pulse rate of over 45 beats a minute.
Unwanted effects
Serious side effects are uncommon if beta-blockers are prescribed with care. However,minor side effects are common and include tiredness, and cold hands and feet. Other less frequent effects can include feeling sick, diarrhoea, skin rashes, impotence, nightmares and dizziness. Beta-blockers are not usually given to people with asthma as they can make this condition worse. And they are not usually given to people who are taking diuretics because this combination could increase the risk of developing diabetes. However, for people with angina, a combination of beta-blockers and diuretics may be beneficial.
You should not stop taking beta-blockers suddenly without medical advice. If you also have angina , stopping beta-blockers too quickly can make your angina worse, or bring on a heart attack.
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