Drug Class Guide
Beta Blockers
Medicines that slow the heart and lower blood pressure, central to treating heart failure, angina and atrial fibrillation.
How Beta Blockers Work
Beta blockers block the effect of adrenaline on beta receptors in the heart and blood vessels. The heart beats more slowly and with less force, which lowers blood pressure and the heart's demand for oxygen. Some, like carvedilol and nebivolol, also relax blood vessels directly.
What Beta Blockers Treat
Beta Blockers in Our Medication Guide
- MetoprololLopressor, Toprol-XLTwo forms: tartrate (shorter-acting) and succinate (once daily, used in heart failure).
- CarvedilolCoreg, Coreg CRAlso blocks alpha receptors; used in heart failure and after a heart attack.
- AtenololTenorminOnce daily; cleared by the kidneys, so dosing depends on kidney function.
- BisoprololZebeta, ConcorHighly selective for the heart; approved for high blood pressure and widely used in heart failure.
- NebivololBystolicAlso relaxes blood vessels through nitric oxide; approved for high blood pressure.
Common Side Effects
Common effects are tiredness, a slower pulse, cold hands and feet, and dizziness, especially in the first weeks. Some people notice vivid dreams or sexual side effects. In people with diabetes, beta blockers can hide the racing heartbeat that warns of low blood sugar.
Important Cautions
- Do not stop a beta blocker suddenly; doing so can trigger chest pain or a heart attack. Doses are tapered.
- People with asthma may be advised to avoid them or use a heart-selective one.
- They lower your maximum heart rate, so judge exercise effort by how hard it feels rather than by pulse.
Common Questions About Beta Blockers
Can I stop taking a beta blocker if my blood pressure is normal?
Not on your own. Stopping suddenly can cause a rebound rise in heart rate and blood pressure and, in people with heart disease, chest pain or a heart attack. If a beta blocker is no longer needed, your doctor will lower the dose gradually over one to two weeks.
Are beta blockers still used for high blood pressure?
Yes, but they are not usually the first choice for blood pressure alone. Current guidelines favor thiazide diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs or calcium channel blockers first, and reserve beta blockers for people who also have a reason such as heart failure, a past heart attack, angina or atrial fibrillation.
Why do beta blockers make me tired?
Slowing the heart and lowering adrenaline's effect can leave you feeling sluggish, especially in the first few weeks. It often improves as your body adjusts. If it does not, a dose change or a different beta blocker may help.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for advice about your own medicines. Do not start, stop or switch a medication without talking with your doctor. Questions about a prescription? Our internal medicine team can help.
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Trusted Resources for Beta Blockers
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