Who should not take beta-blockers?
Who should not take beta-blockers?
You cannot take a beta-blocker if you have certain conditions, including:
- Asthma.
- Uncontrolled heart failure.
- Very slow heart rate (bradycardia).
- Low blood pressure (hypotension).
- Certain problems with the rhythm of your heart – eg, sick sinus syndrome.
Why are beta-blockers contraindicated in heart failure?
Beta-blockers were contraindicated in CHF because of their intrinsic negative inotropic activity, but have now been shown to be beneficial, partly due to their ability to enhance sensitivity to sympathetic stimulation.
Why beta blocker are contraindicated in diabetes?
In insulin-dependent diabetics, beta-blockers can prolong, enhance, or alter the symptoms of hypoglycemia, while hyperglycemia appears to be the major risk in noninsulin-dependent diabetics. beta-blockers can potentially increase blood glucose concentrations and antagonize the action of oral hypoglycemic drugs.
What should you avoid when taking beta-blockers?
While on beta-blockers, you should also avoid eating or drinking products that have caffeine or taking over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, antihistamines, and antacids that contain aluminum. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, because it can decrease the effects of beta-blockers.
What are the most common side effects of beta-blockers?
Side effects commonly reported by people taking beta blockers include:
- feeling tired, dizzy or lightheaded (these can be signs of a slow heart rate)
- cold fingers or toes (beta blockers may affect the blood supply to your hands and feet)
- difficulties sleeping or nightmares.
- feeling sick.
How do beta-blockers affect the nervous system?
Beta-blockers work by blocking the action of certain hormones in the nervous system, such as adrenaline. By doing this, they help prevent the activation of the “fight-or-flight” stress response. Adrenaline and noradrenaline are hormones that prepare the muscles in the body for exertion.
Which beta-blockers can be used in heart failure?
There are several types of beta-blockers, but only three are approved by the FDA to treat heart failure:
- Bisoprolol (Zebeta)
- Carvedilol (Coreg)
- Metoprolol (Toprol)
Does metoprolol affect blood sugar?
Atenolol and metoprolol are beta-blockers which effectively treat high blood pressure but may raise blood sugars as well.
Which drugs are contraindicated in diabetes?
The drugs that might not mix well with meglitinides include:
- Azole antifungals.
- Certain antibiotics, including rifampin and isoniazid.
- Some high blood pressure medicines, such as calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, and thiazide diuretics.
- Corticosteroids.
- Estrogen.
- Nicotinic acid.
- Oral contraceptives.
- Phenothiazines.
Why do beta-blockers increase stroke risk?
The most likely explanation for the increase in deaths and stroke among those taking beta blockers was that these patients could go into shock if their blood pressure were too low, a not uncommon complication of surgery, Devereaux said.
Which of the following is a side effect of beta-blockers?
Common side effects of beta blockers include:
- Dizziness.
- Weakness.
- Drowsiness or fatigue.
- Cold hands and feet.
- Dry mouth, skin, or eyes.
- Headache.
- Upset stomach.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
How dangerous are beta blockers?
Beta blockers generally aren’t used in people with asthma because of concerns that the medication may trigger severe asthma attacks. In people who have diabetes, beta blockers may block signs of low blood sugar, such as rapid heartbeat. It’s important to monitor your blood sugar regularly.
What is the safest beta blocker?
Beta blockers are generally safe to take. Side effects tend to be annoying, not life-threatening.
What beta blocker has the lowest side effects?
SIDE EFFECTS: You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, and blurred vision as your body adjusts to the medication. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness. Because beta-blockers may reduce blood circulation to the extremities, your hands and feet may be cold.
What are the long term effects of a beta blocker?
Weight Gain. When the medication dose is increased,your body will experience sudden weight gain.
