Beta-blockers are a class of drugs that may help reduce heart rate and blood pressure, which can help lower the risk of heart failure and possible complications.

Beta-blockers can help reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure, which can help treat cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure.

In this article, we look at the role of beta-blockers in heart failure, who they may be suitable for, and their possible side effects.

Beta-blockers are a class of medication that can help with cardiovascular conditions. The body has different beta receptors throughout the body, which help the body function.

Beta-blockers work by blocking certain substances, such as adrenaline, from affecting nerve cells. Beta-blockers help blood vessels increase blood flow, relax, and widen. This can help reduce heart rate and blood pressure.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a doctor may commonly prescribe the following beta-blockers in the treatment of heart failure:

Alongside heart failure, a doctor may also prescribe beta-blockers to treat:

Depending on the condition, people may take beta-blockers orally, intravenously, or topically.

Beta-blockers may not be suitable for people with asthma or Raynaud’s syndrome, as beta-blockers may worsen these conditions.

Beta-blockers may not be suitable for people with diabetes or low blood sugar, as beta-blockers may mask some of the symptoms of low blood sugar.

People will also need to tell a doctor about any medications, herbal remedies, or supplements they take to check for any interactions before taking beta-blockers.

People will need to follow the instructions of a healthcare professional when taking beta-blockers. These instructions may include:

  • taking the medication at the same time each day
  • spacing the doses out if taking beta-blockers more than once a day
  • making up for a missing a dose by taking the next dose of medication as soon as possible, unless timing is close to the next dose, in which case, continue as usual
  • avoiding taking more medication than a doctor prescribes and avoiding taking extra medication to make up for missing doses
  • following the advice of a healthcare professional before stopping beta-blocker use
  • informing a doctor before taking other medications or supplements or if people experience adverse side effects

People may take metoprolol, or other longer-acting beta-blockers, once a day. For other beta-blockers, people may take them twice a day or more.

People will need to monitor their heart rate and blood pressure while taking beta-blockers and inform their doctor if they notice any significant changes.

Beta receptors exist throughout the body, so blocking their effects may cause a range of adverse side effects, which may include:

If people experience any side effects from beta-blockers, they can contact their doctor to discuss them. People may require treatment or a change in medication for severe side effects. It is important to talk with a doctor before stopping beta-blockers.

People will need to contact a doctor if they experience any of the following:

According to a 2020 study, beta-blockers lowered the risk of heart failure complications and deaths in those with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Beta-blockers are a type of medication that can help manage cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure.

Beta-blockers work to block beta receptors in the body, which helps increase blood flow and reduce heart rate and blood pressure.

Beta-blockers may cause some side effects, such as dizziness and low blood pressure. If people experience severe adverse side effects from beta-blockers, they must contact a doctor.

Beta-blockers may be unsuitable for people with certain conditions, such as lung conditions or a slow heart rate.