What happens if you stop taking beta blockers?
If you suddenly stop taking beta-blockers, you may experience rebound hypertension, which is a sudden and significant increase in blood pressure. This can occur within hours or days of stopping the medication and can be dangerous.
Other potential side effects of suddenly stopping beta-blockers include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle cramps
In some cases, suddenly stopping beta-blockers can also lead to a heart attack or stroke.
If you are considering stopping your beta-blocker medication, it is important to talk to your doctor first. Your doctor will help you develop a plan to gradually reduce your dosage and minimize the risk of side effects.