Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers are medicines often used to treat high blood pressure. The are also used to treat fast or irregular heart rates. Examples are atenolol and propranolol.

Beta-blockers may be used to treat people with mental health disorders, such as social anxiety disorder or schizophrenia. That's because they can prevent certain physical symptoms of anxiety. These symptoms include fast heart rate and tremors of the hands. Beta-blockers are also used to treat the tremors and restlessness that are common side effects linked with antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. These are medicines used to treat schizophrenia.

ByHealthwise Staff

Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerChristine R. Maldonado, PhD - Behavioral Health

Current as ofMay 3, 2017