Beta Blockers: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects - A Comprehensive Guide

There are a number of uses for beta blockers. The main purpose deals with the heart and blood pressure, but other benefits have been noted. For example, public speaking can make a person anxious, possibly resulting in a panic attack. A beta blocker may be prescribed to eliminate these symptoms.

Identification

• Beta blockers are medications used primarily to reduce high blood pressure. However, they have proved effective in the treatment of other conditions, such as glaucoma and migraines.

Effects

• Beta blockers work by reducing both the rate and force of the heart beat--lowering blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure can stave off more serious medical conditions. Beta blockers can also help with blood flow by opening constricted blood vessels.

Significance

• Some patients are prescribed beta blockers to help with chest pain, anxiety, heart attack and failure, hyperthyroidism and tremors. Some people have reported a significant reduction in symptoms associated stress while taking beta blockers.

Research

• Beta blockers are generally not used in the treatment of asthma. However, a 2009 research study by the American Asthma Foundation (AAF) suggests beta blockers may reduce asthma symptoms with long-term use.

Considerations

• According to the American Heart Association (AHA), people with diabetes may need to check their sugar levels more frequently. Beta blockers aid in reducing or eliminating irregular heart beats, a sign of lower blood sugar.