About beta-blockersBeta-blockers (beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents) work mainly by decreasing the activity of the heart. They do this by blocking the action of hormones like adrenaline. Show
Beta-blockers are prescription-only medicines (POM). This means they can only be prescribed by a GP or a qualified healthcare professional. Types of beta-blockersExamples of commonly used beta-blockers include:
What beta-blockers are used forBeta-blockers may be used to treat:
Less commonly, beta-blockers are used to prevent migraines or treat:
There are several types of beta-blocker, and each one has its own characteristics. The type prescribed for you will depend on your condition. Who can take beta-blockers?Before taking beta-blockers, make sure your doctor is aware of any other conditions you have. Sometimes they may not be suitable to use. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have a history of:
Your GP can advise you about which medicine to use if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Stopping your medicationTalk to your doctor before you stop taking beta-blockers. It's important that you do not stop taking your medication suddenly. Interactions with other medicinesBeta-blockers, including beta-blocker eye drops, may interact with and alter the effects of other medicines. Some of the more common medicines that can interact with beta-blockers include:
Read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine to check that it's safe to take with beta-blockers. If you're still unsure, ask your GP or pharmacist. Side effects of beta-blockersMost people taking beta-blockers have either no or very mild side effects. These usually become less troublesome with time. Contact your GP if you're experiencing symptoms that affect your everyday life. They can discuss whether the symptoms are a result of the medication and what to do. Don't drive if you feel dizzy, tired, or your vision is affected. Common side effectsSymptoms often reported by people taking beta-blockers include:
Less common side effectsLess common side effects of beta-blockers include:
The Yellow Card SchemeThe Yellow Card Scheme allows you to report suspected side effects from any type of medicine you're taking. It's run by a medicines safety watchdog called the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Further information on the Yellow Card Scheme. Non-urgent advice: Speak to a pharmacist or a GP if:
Phone 111 if your pharmacy or GP are shut. Missed or extra dosesMost beta-blockers are taken once a day, except:
It's important not to miss any of your doses. This could make your treatment less effective. If you forget to take a dose of your beta-blocker, you should check the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine. It should include advice about what to do in this situation. Never double up on a dose to make up for a missed or forgotten dose of any beta-blocker. If you take more tablets than prescribed, contact your Pharmacist, GP or NHS 111 as soon as possible for advice. What priority is placed on the patient's assessment when taking a betaBecause beta blockers lower the heart rate and blood pressure, you will need to monitor your patient for bradycardia and hypotension, including orthostatic hypotension. With that said, always get a blood pressure and heart rate prior to giving the dose.
What should be monitored when taking beta blockers?It's important to check your blood sugar regularly if you have diabetes and you're taking a beta blocker. Beta blockers can also affect cholesterol and triglyceride levels.. Cold hands or feet.. Fatigue.. Weight gain.. What are the nursing considerations for beta blockers?Nursing Considerations: Nonselective beta blockers must be used cautiously with patients who have co-existing asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of the effects on Beta-2 receptors that could potentially cause bronchoconstriction. It can also mask symptoms of hypoglycemia in diabetics.
What patient teaching should be provided to a client taking a betaTake your beta-blocker exactly as directed. Follow the directions on the label. Take your medicine at the same time or times every day. If you take a long-acting tablet or capsule, swallow it whole.
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