Beta blockers are frequently mentioned in the news, such as when Los Angeles Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh disclosed his battle with heart disease in October. A significant number of Americans, approximately 127.9 million aged 20 and older, struggle with cardiovascular diseases, as reported by a joint study from the American Heart Association and National Institutes of Health. Harbaugh’s particular condition is atrial flutter, a disorder characterized by the heart’s upper chambers beating faster than the lower chambers, a common issue shared by millions of individuals. Beta blockers, a class of drugs, are commonly used to manage various heart-related problems, including atrial flutter, as stated by AHA Volunteer President Dr. Keith Churchwell, a cardiovascular medicine expert. These medications work by slowing the heart rate and reducing blood pressure by targeting beta one and beta two receptors in the heart.
Beta blockers are commonly prescribed for irregular heart rhythms, heart attacks, heart failure, chest pain, and other cardiovascular conditions. Some doctors also recommend beta blockers for treating anxiety disorders and migraines due to their wide-ranging benefits. Discovered in 1964 by Sir James Black, beta blockers have become one of the most prescribed drugs for heart-related issues. The drugs include metoprolol, carvedilol, atenolol, propranolol, labetalol, bisoprolol, timolol, and nadolol, among others. Patients typically need to take beta blockers long-term or even for life, with potential adjustments in dosage over time, according to Churchwell.
There are two main types of beta blockers: cardioselective and nonselective. Cardioselective blockers focus on blocking the B1 receptors in the heart, while nonselective blockers have a broader effect on heart rate, blood pressure, and kidney enzyme release. It is estimated that around 30 million Americans are currently taking beta blockers, with some individuals eligible for generic versions at a low cost through Medicare.
In discussing how the federal government plans to enhance access to healthcare and make medications more affordable, it is crucial to understand the potential side effects of beta blockers. Like most medications, beta blockers come with their own set of side effects that individuals need to be aware of. Dr. Churchwell highlighted that beta blockers have the potential to cause bronchial constriction, which may pose challenges for individuals with chronic lung diseases, asthma, and diabetes. Additionally, he pointed out that these drugs can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia due to their inhibitory effects on adrenaline.
Careful consideration is needed when administering beta blockers to diabetic patients, as these medications can decrease heart rate, which is beneficial, but may also result in feelings of fatigue. According to information from the Mayo Clinic, other common side effects of beta blockers include cold hands or feet, extreme tiredness, weight gain, dizziness or lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping.
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for beta blockers due to their specific medical conditions. Dr. Churchwell noted that individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are prescribed a particular type of beta blocker to prevent any exacerbation of lung function. Furthermore, those who have experienced allergic reactions or adverse effects from beta blockers should avoid taking the medication. However, in cases where beta blockers are deemed necessary, physicians typically prescribe lower doses and closely monitor the patient’s response to the treatment.
The Cleveland Clinic advises against the use of beta blockers in individuals with certain types of heart arrhythmias, as the medication has the potential to worsen specific heartbeats.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is a beta blocker? Why they’re crucial for individuals with heart conditions
