Indications
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Contraindications
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HTN
SVT / Atrial arrythmias
Angina
Prevent reinfarction s/p MI
Migraine headaches
Tremor, stage-fright
↓BP
↓HR
2⁰ or 3⁰ heart blocks
Heart failure
COPD / asthma
Pregnancy
Hypoglycemia (use caution)
Drug Class
Non-selective beta blockers “-LOL”
Examples
 propranolol (non-selective)
 nebivolol (non-selective)
Mechanism of Action
Block the effects of norepinephrine at beta-1 and
beta-2 adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic NS.
Block “Flight-or-flight”
Adverse Effects
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Bradycardia
Hypotension / dizziness
Heart Failure / pulm edema
AV block
Arrhythmias
Bronchospasm
Fatigue / ↓ exercise tolerance
Impotence
Hypoglycemia (esp with insulin)
Depression
Nursing Considerations
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Hold if HR <60
Hold if ↓BP
Watch for worsening HR / crackles
ECG monitoring (esp w/ IV)
Watch for bronchospasm (asthma/COPD
should have selective beta-1 blocker)
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Fall precaution
Careful with diabetics – monitor
glucose
Do not abruptly D/C
Interacts with NSAIDs (less effective)