An Introduction to Beta Blocker Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
beta blockers. However, not everyone who takes these medications will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate them quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with beta blockers. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you. You can also read about specific side effects for each individual beta blocker by going to the specific drug within eMedTV.)
Beta blockers have been thoroughly studied in clinical trials.
In these studies, the side effects that occurred in a group of people taking the beta blocker were documented and then usually compared to the side effects that occurred in another group of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients). As a result, it was possible to see what side effects occurred, how often they appeared, and how they compared to the group taking the placebo.
In these studies, some of the most common beta blocker side effects in general have included:
- A slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Cold hands and feet
- Dizziness.
The most common side effect of most beta blocker eye drops is temporary eye discomfort.
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