What is this medication? They’re officially called beta-adrenergic blocking agents. But most people call them beta-blockers. Show Beta-blockers include:
Be aware:
Beta-blockers make your heart work less hard. This lowers your heart rate (pulse) and blood pressures. If your heart is weakened, certain beta-blockers can protect your heart and help it get stronger.
Key facts about beta-blockers:
Be aware: If you take a beta-blocker, keep a written log of your heart rate and blood pressure.
Take your beta-blocker exactly as prescribed.
Some medications can stop your heart medicine from working properly. They may even cause other health problems. Tell your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking. These include:
Beta-blockers can cause some side effects.
Be aware: If you have diabetes and take a beta-blocker, watch your blood sugars closely. It may be harder to notice the effects of low blood sugar:
Beta-blockers don’t affect dizziness or sweating caused by low blood sugar. If you have side effects, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Lifestyle changes that can also helpThere are two ways to control and manage your heart health: medication and lifestyle. Medication can help you control heart disease and high blood pressure, but it cannot cure it. A healthy lifestyle can help you keep medication to a minimum. Visit heartandstroke.ca/get-healthy. Learn how to keep your heart healthy with current information and advice from Heart and Stroke experts. Talk to your healthcare provider about the most beneficial lifestyle goals for you. Related informationYour healthcare provider or pharmacist are your best sources of information. You can also learn more about medications at any of these trusted sites. Health Canada - Drugs and Health Products Learn more about:
Your ministry of health also offers health resources in your province or territory. For example, Ontario’s MedsCheck program provides free pharmacist consultations. And British Columbia’s Senior Healthcare web page provides information about important health programs. Drug coverage What patient teaching should be provided to a client taking a beta blocker?Take your beta-blocker exactly as directed. Follow the directions on the label. Take your medicine at the same time or times every day. If you take a long-acting tablet or capsule, swallow it whole.
What are nursing considerations for beta blockers?Nursing Considerations: Nonselective beta blockers must be used cautiously with patients who have co-existing asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of the effects on Beta-2 receptors that could potentially cause bronchoconstriction. It can also mask symptoms of hypoglycemia in diabetics.
What should be monitored when taking beta blockers?In people who have diabetes, beta blockers may block signs of low blood sugar, such as rapid heartbeat. It's important to check your blood sugar regularly if you have diabetes and you're taking a beta blocker. Beta blockers can also affect cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
What important teaching points should be addressed for patients receiving antihypertensive drugs?Patients should be compliant with medication therapy and take the medication at the same time each day. They should be careful not to take more than the prescribed dose within a 24-hour period. Do not abruptly cease medication as rebound hypertension might occur.
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