Beta Blocker Effects

A beta-blocker is a medicine, administered to people suffering from heart related disorders. To know more about beta-blockers, read on.

A beta blocker is a drug that is commonly prescribed to treat heart related problems. This medicine blocks the stimulatory effects of beta receptors. These receptors are tiny structures that are present in the different organs of the body including the heart, blood vessels and the brain. Stimulation of the heart causes the heart to beat faster and the blood vessels become narrow. As a result, the blood pressure rises, which is detrimental to a persons health. In case, the coronary arteries are narrowed, the pressure on the heart increases which can lead to chest pain.

Benefits of Beta-Blocker

Beta blockers work by blocking these stimulatory impulses of beta receptors, thereby decreasing the blood pressure and the heart rate. The drug is also used to treat patients with high blood pressure. A hormone known as adrenaline, can also stimulate beta receptors. Adrenaline is produced in the adrenal gland and circulates in the bloodstream. The adrenaline levels in the blood can vary. For instance, if a person is frightened or anxious, then a large amount of adrenaline is released into the bloodstream. This can increase the heart rate to a great extent.

People with abnormally fast heart rates are often advised to use beta-blockers. This drug is administered after a heart attack to prevent recurrent heart attacks. A beta-blocker greatly decreases the possibility of another heart attack. It can also reduce the strain on the heart and prevent angina pain. Chronic heart failure can also be effectively managed by taking beta-blockers. The medicine is used in the treatment of migraines headaches, anxiety and tremors. Beta-blocker eye drops reduce the amount of fluid that is produced in the anterior of the eyes. This in turn, helps decrease the pressure in the eye.

Common beta-blockers used for a variety of health problems are

Acebutolol (Sectral)

Bisoprolol (Zebeta)

Metoprolol (Lopressor)

Nadolol (Corgard)

In short this beta-blocker medicine 'sits' on these receptors and prevents them from being stimulated. For instance, if beta-receptors present in the heart are suppressed, the heart rate is reduced.

Side Effects of Beta-Blocker

The common side effects associated with beta-blockers are fatigue and weakness. A beta-blocker should not be taken, if the patient has a slow pulse rate or extremely low blood pressure as it can cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Unexplained weight gain is observed when the medication dose is increased. Some patients develop cold hands and feet, when using this medicine. This happens because small blood vessels become narrow, causing a reduction in the the flow of blood to the hands and feet. Other side effects that may occur when taking this medicine are as follows:

Diarrhea or vomiting

Sleep disorders

Depression

Impotence

People with chronic lung diseases or asthma are not given a beta-blocker, as it can trigger asthma attacks. The medicine should not be stopped suddenly at it can worsen angina (chest pain). Severe diarrhea or vomiting may cause dehydration, which would ultimately lead to low blood pressure. In such circumstances the doctor may reduce the dosage to inhibit the severity of side effects.

However, in most cases, patients taking beta-blockers usually experience mild side effects. Serious side effects are rare, as the medicine is well tolerated by the human body.