The NHS urges people with some health conditions who are prescribed beta blockers to consult their GP
Kieran Isgin Money & Lifestyle writer and Robert Rowlands Deputy editor, Money and lifestyle hub
13:47, 24 Dec 2025
The NHS is encouraging people on beta blockers to speak with their GP if they’re dealing with particular health issues. Beta blockers – such as atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, and metoprolol – are medicines that work to slow down heart rate by preventing hormones like adrenaline from taking effect.
Beta blockers is an umbrella term covering different medications, with each one functioning in slightly unique ways and potentially impacting the body differently. Doctors usually prescribe a particular beta blocker that’s suited to your specific medical needs.
These drugs are frequently given for a range of conditions, such as angina, elevated blood pressure, and heart failure, reports the Mirror. While beta blockers can prove incredibly successful in controlling symptoms of these ailments, the NHS cautions that certain people might not be able to use them depending on their health situation.
When to contact a medical professional
NHS guidance explains: “Beta blockers are not suitable for everyone.” It suggests having a chat with a doctor if you’re dealing with any of the following medical conditions:
- Low blood pressure or other conditions that may affect the rhythm of your heart
- Metabolic acidosis
- Had an allergic reaction to a beta blocker or any other medication in the past
- Asthma or lung disease
- Uncontrolled heart failure
The NHS firmly recommends against discontinuing beta blockers without speaking to a doctor first, cautioning: “In some cases, suddenly stopping the medicine may make your health condition worse.”
If you’re planning to start a family, expecting a baby, or nursing, it’s essential to let your doctor know if you’ve been given beta blockers. These medications can lead to side effects that may require immediate medical attention.
The NHS advises patients on beta blockers to get in touch with their GP ‘straight away’ if they notice certain symptoms such as:
- Skin or whites of eyes turn yellow
- Shortness of breath of a cough that gest worse when you exercise
- Shortness of breath, tightness of chest, wheezing
A comprehensive list of the potential side effects for those taking beta blockers is available on the NHS website here.
