Selective Beta Blockers Vs. Nonselective Beta Blockers

Beta-blockers treat high blood pressure, anxiety, glaucoma and migraines by blocking the effects of epinephrine to the heart. Selective beta-blockers and nonselective beta-blockers work on different beta receptors, but produce similar treatment effects.

Function

• Selective beta-blockers work on beta-1 adrenoreceptors, which control heart rate and force of heartbeat. Nonselective beta-blockers work on beta-1 adrenoreceptors and beta-2 adrenoreceptors, which control the relaxation of smooth muscle.

Effects

• Both types of beta-blockers slow the transmission of nerve impulses through the heart muscle. This reduces the amount of oxygen and blood required by the heart, slowing it down and reducing its workload.

Types

• Selective beta-blockers include atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, betaxolol, acebutolol and esmolol. Examples of nonselective beta-blockers include carteolol, labetalol, penbutolol, pindolol, sotalol, propranolol, carvedilol, nadolol and timolol, according to Dr. Richard Klabunde, author of Cardiovascular Physiology Concepts.

Side Effects

• Beta-blocker side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth and eyes, weakness, cold hands and feet, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping and swelling of the feet and hands.

Complications

• Both types of beta-blockers can interact with antidepressants, diabetes medications, allergy shots, asthma medications and other high blood pressure drugs. Triglyceride levels may increase slightly during treatment with beta-blockers.