Beta blocker, which are also known as beta antagonists or beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are prescribed to treat a variety of medical conditions. The following article provides information on the effects of an overdose.
The use of beta blockers is recommended for treating conditions such as high blood pressure, chest pain, panic attacks, migraines, etc. These drugs help reduce the effects of adrenaline and other stress hormones in the body, thereby alleviating the symptoms. Problems can arise when the medicine is taken in doses that are higher than what has been recommended by a doctor.
Signs of an Overdose
An overdose may affect different parts of the body, such as the eyes, ears, nose and throat, heart, the nervous system, and even the lungs.
In case of the eyes, the symptoms include blurred vision and double vision. An overdose can have an adverse effect on the working of the heart, thereby giving rise to lightheadedness, heart failure, low blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and even shock. If the airways and lungs are affected, the patient might experience breathing difficulty. Asthmatics are likely to experience wheezing. When the nervous system is affected by an overdose, symptoms such as confusion, weakness, nervousness, convulsions, drowsiness, excessive perspiration, and fever might be experienced.
It must be noted that diabetics should exercise caution while taking these drugs with other high blood pressure medications. Problems can arise as beta agonists could mask the symptoms of low blood sugar. The symptoms of emphysema and bronchitis can also worsen, as these drugs might constrict the airways.
Treatment
An overdose is a medical emergency. However, there are a few things which must be taken care of, before calling for medical help or while the help is arriving. These vital things include making a note of the age, weight, and condition of the affected person, and name of the product taken. If possible, the dosage and the time when the medication was taken must be noted.
It is also beneficial if the emergency team comes to know if the beta-adrenergic blocking agent was a prescribed medication for the patient. In case you were not aware, 1-800-222-1222 is the number of every poison center in the United States. So, under such circumstances, call this number for professional assistance, in order to deal with the situation, until you get medical help.
In the emergency room, the blood pressure, temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and the other symptoms would be monitored or measured. The affected person may receive medications for dealing with symptoms such as rising blood pressure, seizures, abnormal heart rate, etc.
Here is a list of the names under which prescription beta blockers are sold.
- Acebutolol (Sectral)
- Atenolol (Apo-atenolol)
- Betaxolol (Kerlone)
- Bisoprolol (Zebta)
- Carteolol (Cartrol)
- Esmolol (Brevibloc)
- Labetalol (Normodyne)
- Metoprolol (Toprol)
- Nadolol (Corgard)
- Sotalol (Betapace)
- Oxprenolol (Trasicor)
- Penbutolol (Levatol)
- Pindolol (Novo-pindol)
- Propranolol (Inderal)
- Timolol (Apo-timol)
Needless to say, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendation about the dosage. Remember, taking the drug in a dose that is more than what you have been prescribed can give rise to untoward effects.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
