Beta Blockers

Beta-adrenergic blockers

A group of medications mainly used to treat cardiovascular conditions like hypertension, coronary artery disease, and heart failure.

Mechanism of action of beta blockers

They block beta receptors, preventing catecholamines norepinephrine and epinephrine from binding, which decreases sympathetic nervous system response.

Types of beta receptors

Beta 1 (heart and kidneys), Beta 2 (lung bronchioles and skeletal muscles arteries), Beta 3 (adipose tissue).

Nonselective beta blockers

Beta blockers that block both beta 1 and beta 2 receptors; examples include nadolol, propranolol, and sotalol.

Selective beta blockers

Beta blockers that only block beta 1 receptors; examples include atenolol, metoprolol, and nebivolol.

Common side effects of beta blockers

Bradycardia, hypotension, fatigue, dizziness, headache, depression, and sleep problems.

Hypoglycemia unawareness

A condition where a client with diabetes does not experience typical hypoglycemic symptoms due to beta blockers blocking epinephrine’s action.

Contraindications for beta blockers

Should be avoided in clients with bradycardia, hypotension, decompensated heart failure, second or third degree AV block, and asthma.

Therapeutic effects of beta blockers

Decrease heart rate, decrease cardiac output, reduce blood volume, and lower blood pressure.

Monitoring for clients on beta blockers

Perform baseline assessments, monitor vital signs, renal and hepatic function, and watch for side effects.

Lifestyle modifications for clients on beta blockers

Dietary changes, regular activity, weight control, moderate alcohol intake, and smoking cessation.

Actions to take if hypotension occurs

Instruct clients to change positions slowly when moving from lying or seated positions.

Importance of gradually stopping beta blockers

To avoid the risk of rebound hypertension, clients should not abruptly stop taking their medication.

Client education for diabetes patients on beta blockers

Advise them to check blood glucose regularly and watch for symptoms like fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

Cardiac workload

Beta blockers decrease cardiac output and workload, making them useful for heart failure treatment.

Common neurological side effects of beta blockers

Headache, depression, hallucination, and sleep issues like insomnia and nightmares.