Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers (beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents) work mainly by decreasing the activity of the heart. They do this by blocking the action of hormones like adrenaline.
What are beta-blockers used for?
Beta-blockers may be used to treat:
Less often, beta-blockers are used to prevent migraines or treat:
- an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- anxiety conditions
- tremor
- glaucoma – as eye drops
Types of beta-blockers
There are several types of beta-blocker. The type prescribed for you will depend on your condition.
Examples of common beta-blockers include:
- atenolol
- bisoprolol
- carvedilol
- metoprolol
- nebivolol
- propranolol
Missed or extra doses
It’s important not to miss any of your doses. This could make your treatment less effective.
If you forget to take a dose of your beta-blocker, you should check the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine. It should include advice about what to do in this situation.
Never double dose to make up for a missed or forgotten dose of any beta-blocker.
If you take more tablets than prescribed, contact your pharmacist or GP practice as soon as possible. You can also phone 111 for advice.
Possible side effects
Most people taking beta-blockers have either no side effects or very mild ones. These usually get better with time.
Contact your GP if you’re experiencing symptoms that affect your everyday life. They can discuss whether the symptoms are a result of the medication and what to do.
Do not stop taking your medication suddenly. Talk to your doctor before you stop taking beta-blockers.
Common side effects
The side effects of beta-blockers can include:
- dizziness
- tiredness
- blurred vision
- cold hands and feet
- slow heartbeat
- diarrhoea
- nausea (feeling sick)
Less common side effects
Less common side effects of beta-blockers include:
- sleep disturbance (insomnia)
- loss of sex drive (libido)
- depression
- problems getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
Reporting side effects
The Yellow Card Scheme allows you to report suspected side effects from any medicine you’re taking. It’s run by a medicines safety watchdog called the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Further information on the Yellow Card Scheme
Warnings and precautions
Before taking beta-blockers, tell your doctor about any other conditions you have. Sometimes beta-blockers may not be suitable for you.
Make sure you tell your doctor if you have a history of:
- asthma or any type of lung disease
- heart disease
- kidney disease
- diabetes – particularly if you often have episodes of low blood sugar
- allergic reaction to any medication
- metabolic acidosis
Other medicines and beta-blockers
Beta-blockers may interact with and alter the effects of other medicines.
Some of the more common medicines that can interact with beta-blockers include:
- anti-arrhythmics – used to control irregular heartbeats
- antihypertensives – used to lower blood pressure
- antipsychotics – used to treat severe mental health problems
- clonidine – used to treat high blood pressure and migraine
- mefloquine – used to treat or prevent malaria
Read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine to check that it’s safe to take with beta-blockers. If you’re still unsure, ask your GP or pharmacist.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Your GP can advise you about which medicine to use if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Driving and using machinery
Don’t drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy, tired, or your vision is affected.
Last updated:
31 May 2024