Beta blockers

Beta blockers slow your heart rate and can help control your heart rhythm, lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of you having a heart attack. Read about the types of beta blockers, how they work and their possible side effects.

Types of beta blockers

  • atenolol, also called Atenolol AFT, Atenolol Viatris 
  • bisoprolol, also called Ipca-Bisoprolol 
  • carvedilol, also called Carvedilol Sandoz 
  • labetalol, also called Biocon, Presolol 
  • metoprolol, also called Myloc CR, IPCA-Metoprolol, Slow Lopresor 
  • nadolol, also called Nadolol BNM 
  • sotalol 
  • propranolol, also called Cardinol LA, Drofate, Ipca-Propranolol

How do beta blockers work?

Beta blockers slow your heart rate and can help:  

What are beta blockers for? 

Beta blockers are used to treat a range of heart conditions including:  

Beta blockers are also used to treat other conditions including:  

  • prevention of migraine headaches  
  • an overactive thyroid gland  
  • anxiety. 

Beta blockers side effects

You may have some unwanted side effects when taking beta blockers. Common side effects include:  

  • feeling dizzy or light-headed 
  • feeling tired or having low energy 
  • a slow heartbeat  
  • feeling sick (nausea) 
  • cold hands and feet 
  • sleep problems (trouble getting to sleep or vivid dreams) 
  • difficulty getting an erection or other problems with sex. 

Ring 111 if you have signs of an allergic reaction including:  

  • itchy skin and rash 
  • swollen lips or tongue 
  • breathing problems such as a tight chest or shortness of breath. 

Usually your doctor will start you on a low dose and gradually increase it until it's right for you. It may take a while to feel the benefits of the medication. 

If you’re worried about the side effects or they don’t go away after a few weeks, talk to your doctor or nurse. They may be able to change the dose or your medication. 

Don't stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor or nurse. Stopping beta blockers suddenly can make your symptoms worse.

What checks do I need?

Your blood pressure and heart rate should be monitored by your GP or nurse at your visits, and more frequently if your dose changes. 

What happens if I miss a dose?

It's important to take your beta blocker medication daily and not to skip a dose.  

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day, then continue as normal. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as normal. 

Do NOT take a double dose. 

What else do I need to know when taking beta blockers?

Tell your doctor or nurse if you're taking: 

  • supplements 
  • natural medicines 
  • vitamins 
  • medicines bought from a pharmacy without a prescription 
  • alternative therapies.  

These can sometimes make your beta blockers less effective.  

Talk to your doctor or nurse if you: 

  • have asthma or other lung conditions, as some beta blockers may not be suitable 
  • have diabetes 
  • are planning to get pregnant or are breastfeeding. 

Related treatments and conditions

Search for another heart medication