These Drugs are classified Into Two Main Groups;
- Beta 1 + Beta 2 Blockers
- Beta 1 Blockers
Beta 1 And Beta 2 Blockers
Generic | Brand |
Propranolol | Inderal |
Pindolol | Visken |
Penbutolol | Levatol |
Nadolol | Corgard |
Carteolol | Ocupress |
Timolol | Blocadren |
Sotalol | Betapace |
Mainly Beta 2 Blockers:
Genric | Brand |
Acebutolol | Sectrol |
Atenolol | Tenormin |
Alprenolol | Aptin |
Betaxolol | Kerlone |
Celiprolol | Selectol |
Esmolol | Brevibloc |
Metoprolol | Lopressor, Toprol-XL) |
Uses :
Beta-blockers are a group of prescription drugs and may be used to treat the following Conditions
- High Blood Pressure
- Heart Attack
- Angina
- Atrial Fibrillation
- Less commonly used for glaucoma (as eye drops), Tremor, Anxiety conditions and Hyperthyroidism.
Mechanism Of Action:
Beta blockers, also called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, inhibit the release of the adrenaline and noradrenaline in certain parts of the body. This results in a slowing of the heart rate and reduces the force at which blood is pumped around your body. Beta-blockers are drugs which make your heart beat more slowly and with less force.
Beta-blockers can also block angiotensin II In the kidney which results in lowering the blood pressure.
Beta Blockers Side effects
- A slow heart rate and dizziness. One of the ways in which beta-blockers work is to slow down your heart rate. If it becomes too slow, you may feel dizzy. If you’re worried that your heart rate is too slow, see your doctor.
- Cold hands and feet. You may need to wear gloves and thick socks in cold weather.
- You may notice this most when you first start taking beta-blockers or if your dose is increased.
Other side-effects can include:
- visual disturbances
- sleep disturbance, including nightmares
- Erectile dysfunction is occasionally a problem for some men who take beta blockers.
Note :
Make sure you tell your GP if you have a history of:
- Allergic reaction to any medications
- Asthma
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
It’s Very Important To Talk To Your GP Or HealthCare Provider Before Stopping Beta Blockers Because Stopping it suddenly could cause problems such as palpitations, a recurrence of angina pain or a rise in blood pressure.