DEAR DR. GOTT: Please explain what beta blockers are and what they do in certain medications.
DEAR READER: A beta blocker, also known as a beta-adrenergic blocking agent, is a medication designed to help reduce hypertension. The drug actually “blocks” the effects of epinephrine that stimulates the adrenal glands. This, in turn, makes the heart beat slower and easier. Some beta blockers affect the heart; others affect both the heart and blood vessels. Therefore, a physician will make an appropriate decision as to which one to prescribe.
Drugs in this class are used to treat heart arrhythmias (irregularities), heart attack, migraine headaches, hyperthyroidism and a number of other conditions. They are not commonly prescribed for people with a diagnosis of asthma because of the possibility of triggering an attack.
Side effects may occur in some people and can include insomnia, depression, shortness of breath and a temporary elevation in cholesterol levels.
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