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The Functions & Side Effects of Beta Blockers

Beta blockers are a type of drug used to treat a wide spectrum of conditions. Their full medical name is "beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs." Beta blockers work by blocking the path of certain neurotransmitters sent from the nerves to the cells of the body; in so doing, beta blockers can stop certain bodily reactions to nerve impulses.

  1. How Beta Blockers Work

    • Beta blockers work by blocking the transmission of certain nerve impulses. A nerve emits an impulse by releasing a chemical, or neurotransmitter. The impulse interacts with an organ by stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors that impart instructions as to what the organ should do. For example, a nerve impulse sent to the heart might result in the stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors on heart cells, causing an increase in the heartbeat. By covering the beta-adrenergic receptors, beta blockers prevent such physical reactions. In this case that would benefit a patient with a weak heart.

    Heart and Blood Vessel Conditions

    • Because of their ability to block certain signals being sent to the heart cells, beta blockers can be used to prevent angina pains, avoid overstimulation of the heart that could cause a heart attack, control abnormal heart rhythms, help to treat heart failure, and lower blood pressure.

    Other Conditions

    • Because beta receptors are found in various parts of the body, beta blockers can be used for a number of conditions. Beta blockers can treat an overactive thyroid gland; for this condition they are used to reduce tremors and slow down a fast heart rate. They can be used to treat glaucoma, where they reduce the fluid made in the front chamber of the eye, thus reducing the pressure in the eye. Beta blockers can relieve symptoms of anxiety such as tremors and a racing heart, and can be useful in preventing reoccurring migraines.

    Side Effects

    • Most people can take beta blockers without experiencing major side effects. However, because these medications act on a number of parts of the body, some users may experience unwanted effects. Beta blockers can sometimes make the heart beat too slowly, which can cause dizziness and faintness. They can also narrow the airways and should not be used by patients with asthma. Beta blockers can also cause cold hands and feet because they constrict blood vessels and reduce circulation to the extremities. Beta blockers can induce tiredness, depression and impotence in some patients.

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