Beta Blockers to Control Heart Rate

Most of the information below about beta blockers comes from this source.1

Purpose

Beta blockers slow the heart rate and relax the blood vessels by blocking the release of the stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline. This helps reduce afib symptoms.

How to Use

Beta blockers are pills taken by mouth. Your doctor will determine the right dose for you based on which drug you take.

Warnings

Beta blockers are typically not prescribed if you have uncontrolled heart failure, low blood pressure, asthma, or other lung diseases.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects include:

  • Cold hands and feet
  • Fatigue
  • Unusually vivid dreams
  • Erectile dysfunction in men

Brands

Beta blockers include atenolol (Tenormin®), carvedilol (Coreg™), metoprolol (Toprol XL™, Lopressor®), and sotalol (Betapace®)