Beta blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are a class of medicines that lower blood pressure by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. They cause the heart to beat more slowly and with less force, which lowers blood pressure. Beta blockers also help widen veins and arteries to improve blood flow. Beta blockers are mainly used to treat heart and circulatory conditions, including high blood pressure, heart failure, chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and irregular heart rhythms called arrhythmias. They are also used to prevent migraines and treat some types of tremors. Beta blockers are available in several types, and the best one for an individual depends on their health conditions. Some examples of beta blockers taken by mouth include atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, and propranolol. Beta blockers are prescription-only medicines and can only be prescribed by a GP or a qualified healthcare professional.

Beta blockers are not recommended as a first treatment if an individual has only high blood pressure. They are not usually used for high blood pressure unless other medicines, such as diuretics, have not worked well. Beta blockers can interact with and alter the effects of other medicines, so it is important to read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicine to check that it is safe to take with beta blockers. If an individual is still unsure, they should ask their GP or pharmacist. Beta blockers can cause side effects, and common side effects include tiredness, cold hands and feet, and sleep disturbances. Beta blockers are not usually prescribed for people with asthma, COPD, or breathing trouble, or for those with very low blood pressure, a type of heart rhythm problem called a heart block, or a slow pulse (bradycardia) .