High Blood Pressure and Beta Blockers

A few weeks ago, I wrote an article about Blood pressure, then a couple of weeks later about how one of the classes of medication (ACE inhibitors) work. 

Following this article, I had several customers contact me because they were experiencing the adverse reaction (cough) I mentioned, and wanted my opinion on what their best options were. 

Today I want to discuss another heart, blood pressure medicine class called beta-blockers how they work and possible adverse reactions. 

Many years ago, scientists discovered a small piece of protein on or in cells that react to chemicals. The first was called an alpha receptor and the second a beta receptor. Both are connected to our heart and blood vessels. 

Beta-blockers have may benefits in treating heart conditions and blood pressure. 

Beta receptors are primarily in our arteries, heart, lungs, and brains, are stimulated by substances like adrenalin. This gives us the flight-fight response, where we can run faster, think faster, and lift weights much heavier than we expect, for example. 

Beta-blockers have the opposite effect. Our heart slows, circulation, especially to our periphery, is reduced, lung capacity and mood can be reduced. This gives adverse reactions such as asthma like symptoms, slow heart rate, depression, and poor circulation in our hands (Raynaud’s phenomenon). 

If your doctor has recommended and prescribed a beta-blocker, it is for a good reason so should not be ceased, however if you believe you are experiencing some side effects, come in had have a talk with me or any of the other pharmacists that work with me, or you doctor. 

So, until next time keep well, come in and have a chat, your good health could depend on it.