Drug Classes: Beta Blockers

Used to treat: Hypertension, Angina (selected drugs only*), Tachyarrhythmias, Migraine, Congestive Heart Failure (selected drugs only), Glaucoma (Ophthalmic Only)


Mechanism of Action: Competes with epinephrine and norepinephrine for beta adrenergic receptors (most common in vascular tissue) resulting in lowered heart rate and blood pressure.


Contraindications: Congestive heart failure (except carvedilol and metoprolol ER), Cimetidine decreases clearance and increases effects of beta blockers, use cautiously with MAOIs



Pregnancy Category:

• C (Metoprolol, Propranolol, Carvedilol) - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
• D (Atenolol) - There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Common Medications (Brand -- Generic)

• Tenormin - Atenolol
• Tablets: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg
• Coreg - Carvedilol
• Tablets: 3.125mg, 6.25mg, 12.5mg, 25mg
• Extended Release Capsules: 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 80mg
• Toprol - Metoprolol Succinate ER
• Extended Release Tablets: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg, 200mg
• Lopressor - Metoprolol Tartrate
• Tablets: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg
• Inderal - Propranolol
• Tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 60mg, 80mg
• Extended Release Capsules: 60mg, 80mg, 120mg, 160mg
• Solution: 4mg/mL, 8mg/mL

Common Side Effects

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Erectile Dysfunction

Rare, but Potentially Deadly Side Effects

• Bradycardia (Extremely low heart rate)
• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
• Pulmonary Edema

Combination Drugs Containing Calcium Channel Blockers:

• Tenoretic - Atenolol/ Chlorthalidone (Diuretic)
• Lopressor HCT - Metoprolol Tartrate/ Hydrochlorothiazide (Diuretic)
• Inderide - Propranolol/ Hydrochlorothiazide (Diuretic)

Miscellaneous

• Almost always end in -lol

Ophthalmic Use: To treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension by reducing the amount of aqueous humor produced.

Common Medications (Brand - Generic)

• Betopic - Betaxolol
• Suspension: 0.25%, 0.5%
• Timoptic - Timolol 
• Solution: 0.25%, 0.5%
• Gel-Forming Solution: 0.25%, 0.5%

Common Side Effects

• Conjunctivitis
• Rashes

C. Samuels