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 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 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

The most common side effects include:
  • Fatigue.
  • Dizziness.

In conclusion:

Beta-blockers are an essential tool in cardiology when used appropriately.