Beta-blockers, high BP, hyperthyroidism - High & Low Blood Pressure Message Board

lmbruns · 09-27-2007, 02:05 PM

I was put on a beta-blocker 3 days ago to control my chronic hypertension during my treatment for hyperthyroidism. The *******ia XL I was taking previously had stopped working and my doctor resorted to the "standard" drug (beta-blockers) for treatment of hypertension, heart palpitations, and racing pulse until my thyroid gets back under control. I'm curious about anyone else's experience with beta-blockers, as I have read about the side effects that these drugs can have. Currently, I feel pretty "drugged", dizzy, tired, etc. on them, but I'm hoping that this will go away soon. How long does it take for this drug to work and what can I expect, side-effect-wise?

flowergirl2day · 09-27-2007, 08:11 PM

Hi,

Quote:

I'm curious about anyone else's experience with beta-blockers, as I have read about the side effects that these drugs can have. Currently, I feel pretty "drugged", dizzy, tired, etc. on them, but I'm hoping that this will go away soon. How long does it take for this drug to work and what can I expect, side-effect-wise

You need to do a search of this board. Beta blockers are often discussed here. There's some information on a heart disorders board as well.
What you are experiencing is normal with beta blockers. The higher the dose, the more severe the side effects. On a maximum dose, there is an exercise intolerance, shortness of breath with any exertion, constant fatigue, stomach upset, ED, etc. These side effects stay. One has to learn to live with them, or switch to different medications.

Beta blockers are great for heart palps, if caused by arrhythmia, and reducing the heart rate. You'll be seeing a fast improvement. It can take a couple of weeks for it to work to reduce the blood pressure, depending on the individual, type and the dosage of the beta blocker.

flowergirl

famnd · 09-27-2007, 08:29 PM

Hi IM,

I've had thyrioditis with periods of being hypo & hyperthyroid. Inderal worked pretty well the first time but not as well the 2nd time. Which beta
blocker are you on?

It is best to titrate drugs (slowly take more & more of the drug rather than start with a big dose.) But Dr's usually don't do that in the interest of time & sometimes there is a need to get the b/p down faster. The result is severe fatigue.

The tireness lessens somewhat but it always there especially the first 3-4 hrs after taking the med. Exercise intolerance is another annoying daily occurance. Don't try to get your heart rate up as it could be dangerous with the drug blocking adenalin. Weight gain is usually a problem but if your TSH is low you are probably losing weight at this point. What is your TSH?

The most important thing you need to know about beta blockers is that stopping them abruptly can cause your b/p to go higher than it was before you started them (this is called rebound hypertension). It can be very dangerous & might even cause a heart attack.

I was switched to a apha/beta blocker towards the end of my episode of hyperthyroiditis. It worked better for me.

You should ask the pharmacist for a info sheet called a package insert from the manufacturer. It will list the side effects & other important info. Be sure to get your lab work done on time.

Be careful if you drink alcohol or like to take hot baths as each dilate blood vessels & you might find yourself unable to get out of the tub (happened to me a few time with the hot water). Fam