NHS beta blockers warning - call a doctor if you notice these symptoms

NHS beta blockers warning - call a doctor if you notice these symptoms Beta blockers are prescription-only medicines commonly used to treat heart conditions NHS guidance advises patients taking beta blockers to seek medical attention should they notice any of a number of specific symptoms. Beta blockers function primarily by reducing the heart rate, achieved by blocking the effects of hormones such as adrenaline. Beta blockers are typically prescribed in tablet form and are only available on prescription. Commonly used beta blockers include atenolol (also called Tenormin), bisoprolol (also called Cardicor or Emcor), carvedilol, labetalol (also called Trandate), metoprolol (also called Betaloc or Lopresor), propranolol (also called Bedranol or Beta-Prograne), and sotalol. Beta blockers can be prescribed to treat angina, heart failure, heart attack and atrial fibrillation. They are also used to tackle high blood pressure either when alternative medications have proved ineffective, or alongside other treatments. Less frequently, beta blockers are prescribed to prevent migraines or to manage anxiety, hyperthyroidism, tremors, and glaucoma (as eyedrops). Beta blockers are not appropriate for everyone, and the NHS advises informing your doctor if you have previously had an allergic reaction to a beta blocker or any other medication, low blood pressure, metabolic acidosis, uncontrolled heart failure, or lung disease or asthma. While the vast majority of people taking beta blockers experience no side effects or only very mild ones, others may encounter serious symptoms in rare instances. NHS guidance states you should contact a doctor immediately if you have - shortness of breath and a cough that gets worse when you exercise (like walking up stairs), swollen ankles or legs, or an irregular heartbeat – these can be signs of heart problems - shortness of breath, wheezing and tightening of your chest – these can be signs of lung problems - yellowish skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow, although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin – these can be signs of liver problems If you forget to take a dose of your beta blocker you should take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Never take an extra dose to make up for one you have forgotten. Should you exceed your prescribed dosage, beta blockers can reduce your heart rate and cause breathing difficulties. Dizziness and trembling may also occur. The quantity of beta blocker that can result in an overdose differs from one individual to another. Contact your GP, call 111 or visit A&E immediately if you have taken too much of your beta blocker.