what do beta blockers do

Beta blockers are a class of medicines that lower blood pressure and are also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents. They work by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, which causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force, thus lowering blood pressure. Beta blockers also help widen veins and arteries to improve blood flow. They are used to prevent, treat, or improve symptoms in various conditions, such as irregular heart rhythms, heart failure, chest pain, heart attacks, high blood pressure, migraines, and some types of tremors. Beta blockers are available in several types, and the best one for an individual depends on their health conditions. Some beta blockers mainly affect the heart, while others affect both the heart and blood vessels. Commonly used beta blockers include atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, labetalol, metoprolol, propranolol, and sotalol. Beta blockers can cause side effects such as cold hands or feet, extreme tiredness, weight gain, dizziness or light-headedness, depression, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before stopping beta blockers, as suddenly stopping the medicine may make the health condition worse.