acebutolol [Sectral™], atenolol [Tenormin™], bisoprolol [Monocor™], carvedilol [Coreg™], labetalol [Trandate™], metoprolol [Lopressor™], nadolol [Corgard™], nebivolol [Bystolic™], pindolol [Visken™], propranolol [Inderal™], sotalolol [Sotacor™].
Beta-blockers are widely used in cardiology. They are easy to identify in a list of medications: the letters “lol” typically appear at the end of their names.
How Do They Work?
Beta-blockers slow the heart rate and lower bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure. It is not uncommon to observe a heart rate of around 60 beats per minute in patients taking them.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Beta-blockers offer numerous benefits for the cardiovascular system. They are used to:
- reduce angina,
- prevent a second heart attack in patients with previous episodes,
- slow or prevent the occurrence of arrhythmias,
- a cornerstone in the treatment of heart failure,
- and lower bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure.
Dosage
Depending on the prescribed medication, beta-blockers should be taken once or twice daily. Always follow the recommendations of your doctor and pharmacist.
Common Side Effects
- Fatigue.
- Dizziness.
In conclusion:
Beta-blockers are an essential tool in cardiology when used appropriately.