Beta blockers effect on heart rate

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Sep 15 2009

Q: I am on atenolol since 2006. I weighed 108 but now I weigh 138. When I tried to exercise I noticed I cannot get my heart rate up no matter what. Is that because of the slowing of the heart from beta blockers? How can I get past that?

A: Your beta blocker is preventing your heart rate from increasing. Exercising too hard in an attempt to get your heart rate up could be dangerous. Instead of focusing on your heart rate, pay attention to how much effort you feel you are exerting when you exercise. If you are wiped out after you exercise, you would be wise to cut back.

Beta blockers and eye sight

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Aug 17 2009

Q: Recently it has been said that beta blockers have a negative impact on your eye sight. I have been on beta blockers for longer than I can remember. I have noticed my eye sight failing even with glasses. I have regular checkups and there is no sign of cataracts or glaucoma. I am considering changing to Resperate. My blood pressure is under control with medication. What do you think?

A: Never stop medication without first consulting with your doctor. Most people experience a decrease in vision as part of aging. Ask your eye doctor if your loss is more than would be expected for your age.

Please Note: RESPeRATE users – do not reduce your blood pressure medication without first consulting with your health care professional.

Allergic reactions to medication

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jul 21 2009

Q: Have you ever heard of someone who had an allergic reaction to beta blockers after taking them for 2 years? I recently started working out at a gym and broke out with hives and a rash and after going to a dermatologist who took blood, the results came back that I’m allergic to beta blockers?

A: Typically an allergic response is noticeable with the second exposure to a substance but allergies can develop at any time. For more information about allergic reactions click here.

Furosemide and diabetes

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Apr 21 2009

Q: I have been treated for high BP for over 15 years on a combination of alpha and beta blockers lisinopril and furosemide. I have developed neuropathy and am becoming glucose intolerant. I am told that furosemide and the blockers increase my risk of diabetes. What medication should I consider?

A: You should discuss your concerns about developing diabetes with your doctor. Depending upon your medical condition, Furosemide might still be the best choice for you. If you are overweight, now would be a good time to get serious about losing the extra pounds.

Pulse rate with BP meds

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Feb 10 2009

Q: Since changing BP meds my pulse rate has been in the 80’s-100. Before it was in the 60’s -lower 70’s. If I wake up during the night it is still high. I am very concerned about the change. What do you think?

A: At rest, normal adult pulse rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Your pulse is in the normal range. I suspect your previous blood pressure medication kept your heart from beating faster. For example, a slow heart rate is a side effect of beta blockers.

Beta blockers and psoriasis

Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Jan 19 2009

Q: Does taking beta blockers to lower BP cause or aggravate psoriasis?

A: Yes, taking beta blockers can make psoriasis worse. You need to tell your doctor that you are experiencing problems. This is a known side effect of this type of medication.