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Is it safe to use beta blockers?

15 Answers
Last Updated: 06/18/2019 at 7:34pm
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Psychologist

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Top Rated Answers
mrscaroleann
September 25th, 2014 2:10am
It is safe to use beta blockers if they have been prescribed to your by a physician. They can drastically lower your heart rate, so it is unsafe to take them if they are not prescribed to you.
CoffeeTeaAndHonesty
April 3rd, 2015 8:05pm
Originally created for those with high heart rates, beta-blockers were then introduced to those experiencing high anxiety during public speaking and other performances such as singing or playing the piano, for the beta-blockers reduce the physical symptoms that go along with nervousness or anxiety. Often, beta-blockers are now prescribed to those who experience severe anxiety (on an "as needed" basis), particularly for those who have panic attacks and prefer not to take other anxiety medications such as benzos, which can become physically addictive. While beta-blockers are not FDA-approved for generalized anxiety, psychiatrists often prescribe it for this reason. To find out if beta-blockers are safe for you to use, a doctor will have to monitor your heart rate after taking them.
WhereCouldLexiBe
November 19th, 2014 8:27pm
I use prescribed beta blockers to deal with the physical symptoms of anxiety. I found that in the beginning, I felt a little lightheaded, but I adjusted fairly well to them.
Anonymous
September 11th, 2014 2:15am
In a way Beta blockers are safe as it does allow the heart to pump more effectively as they decrease the activity of the heart. It can prevent migraines and anxiety but as every medicine; there is side effects that can occur. It can help lower some of the physical symptoms of anxiety; in terms of shaking and decrease the heart rate. This is an advantage as it can help a person through anxiety attacks etc. But Beta blockers can also cause mental illnesses like Depression, tiredness, nightmares and insomnia etc. This causes a disadvantage but as many people who take this have either none of the symptoms or not severe symptoms. As Beta blockers have to prescribed by a GP, I think it is safe as they would only give the medication if it had benefits and as many people who have taken the medication have not showed any side effects.
FionaMason
October 11th, 2014 3:42am
This depends on your definition of beta blockers and where they come from. There are beta blockers that are prescribed by licensed psychiatrists and physicians, and natural beta blockers that can be bought at any store. You can research them online, but overall, when it comes to your health, it is best to consult a trained medical professional before starting any new kind of treatment.
Anonymous
December 25th, 2014 7:11am
Any medication can have side effects, so it is best to speak with a doctor before starting them. With beta blockers, it can be good to check for preexisting heart problems.
Anonymous
January 2nd, 2015 7:41pm
Beta-blockers are a groups of medicines medicines that are used to treat various conditions including angina, high blood pressure, some abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure, heart attack, anxiety, over-active thyroid symptoms, glaucoma and migraine. You can't take beta blockers if you have: Uncontrolled heart failure. Prinzmetal's angina. Bradycardia (a very slow heartbeat). Hypotension (low blood pressure). Certain problems with the rhythm of your heart - for example, sick sinus syndrome. However, as always your doctor is the best source of information and will know more about the risks and side effects of any medicines they might suggest you take. If you're worried about taking a certain medication it would be best to discuss it with them so you can decide whether it's the right drug for you.
AsthmaHound
October 30th, 2014 8:58pm
You should always ask your doctor for specific advice for your own personal health, but in my experience Beta Blockers are perfectly safe to use. They hold no short term ill-effects, and I have been using them for over a year now with stunning success!
Erynn
December 15th, 2014 1:53am
It may depend. Your doctor can answer this best for you, because everyone's body and needs are different.
Arkelight
December 27th, 2014 10:56pm
They are commonly used for a number of medical issues but you should always consult your Doctor. It's not something that anyone could tell you is safe or not safe without the appropriate information.
Quinzzel
September 14th, 2015 11:33am
I think it would be best to speak to a health care professional about that before taking anything. I personally take them for a heart condition I have but it is prescribed and monitored by my cardiologist!
Sydneyaustraliaaa1295
December 28th, 2015 2:38am
Only if prescribed to you. Using prescription medication that isn't prescribed to you is illegal and not something that you should rely on. Drink some chamomile, rub some lavender oil on you temples, but taking drugs that aren't meant for you, is not a proper way to cope.
Kristynsmama
November 15th, 2014 7:15am
However, most medications are safe to use as long as they are taken as prescribed and under the guidance of a medical doctor. If you have questions about a specific medication check with your medical doctor. Pharmacists can also answer a lot of questions about side effects and medication interactions.
Anonymous
November 15th, 2014 9:10am
With any health related concerns, such as is it safe to use beta blockers, it is best to consult with a Doctor or a medical professional who is knowledgeable and license to give advice on this topic.
lucy1013
June 18th, 2019 7:34pm
The decision to start any medication always involves pros and cons. Beta blockers help many with feelings of anxiety especially those with performance anxiety like before a big public speech. However like any medication, they come with side effects. The decision to start a medication should always be one discussed with your doctor. A doctor can help you navigate the process of deciding if the potential benefits to beta blockers outweighs the potential side effects for you specifically. A doctor will also help you find the best dose of beta blocker so that you take enough to feel better but not too much that you have side effects.