Beta-blockers - Interactions with other medicines
- Introduction
- Uses of beta-blockers
- Special considerations
- Side effects of beta-blockers
- Interactions with other medicines
- Missed or extra doses
When two or more medicines are taken at the same time, the effects of one medicine can be altered by the other.
This is sometimes known as a "drug-drug interaction". Beta-blockers, including beta-blocker eye drops, can interact with other medicines.
Some of the more common interactions are listed below. However, this isn't a complete list.
Read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine to check that it's safe to take with beta-blockers. If you're still unsure, you could also ask your GP or pharmacist.
Anti-arrhythmics
Anti-arrhythmics are medicines that control irregular heartbeats. They usually slow the heart down. When taken with beta-blockers, which also slow the heart, there's a small risk of the heart beating too slowly.
Antihypertensives
Antihypertensives are medicines that are used to lower blood pressure. They can cause low blood pressure (hypotension) when taken with beta-blockers.
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics are medicines used to treat severe mental health problems. Some types of beta-blockers, such as Sotalol, can increase the risk of arrhythmias if they're used by people taking antipsychotics.
Other medication
Some other medicines that are known to interact with beta-blockers are listed below:
- Clonidine is a medicine used to treat high blood pressure and migraine. Rebound hypertension (a sharp and sudden rise in blood pressure) can occur if you stop taking clonidine while taking a beta-blocker.
- Mefloquine can cause a slow heart rate when used with beta-blockers.
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