Beta-blockers are used to lower blood pressure and treat heart failure and heart rhythm problems. They're also used to relieve angina symptoms, such as chest pain or pressure. And they may decrease the chance of a second heart attack in people who already had a heart attack. They also slow the heart rate. And they reduce strain on the heart muscle and blood vessels.
They are also used for other health problems that aren't related to the heart. These include migraine headaches and tremors.
Before you start to take this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have severe asthma or frequent asthma attacks. Beta-blockers can make asthma symptoms worse.
Beta-blocker medicines slow the heart rate and decrease how forcefully the heart contracts, reducing the amount of oxygen the heart needs to work. Beta-blockers are often used to treat heart conditions, including high blood pressure, heart failure, and fast or irregular heart rates.
Beta-blockers are also used for other health problems such as migraine headaches and glaucoma.
Here are some examples of beta-blockers. For each item in the list, the generic name is first, followed by any brand names.
This is not a complete list of beta-blockers.
Some cautions are:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Beta-blockers can make some people feel tired, dizzy, or lightheaded. They can also make asthma worse. In some people, heart rate or blood pressure can drop too low. If the medicine is stopped suddenly, high blood pressure, a heart attack, or dangerous heart rhythm may occur.
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