Patients should never stop taking beta blockers abruptly. Doing so may lead to angina or heart attack in patients with coronary artery disease or the worsening of symptoms for patients with other conditions (e.g., hyperthyroidism). Patients who need to stop this medication should do so gradually while under a physician’s guidance.

Most patients on beta blockers to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) will be taking the medication for the rest of their lives, provided no serious side effects occur. Patients should remember that beta blockers control high blood pressure, but do not cure it. Even if blood pressure is successfully lowered, patients should continue taking their medication exactly as directed and keeping all scheduled follow-up appointments with their physicians. Also, patients should take and record their blood pressure readings regularly, reporting anything unusual to their physicians.

Patients on beta blockers should measure their heart rate for a full minute periodically. If it is 50 beats per minute or lower, patients should contact their physician. Patients being treated for heart failure may need to weigh themselves frequently and report a gain of more than 5 pounds in one week to their physicians.

Beta blockers affect circulation, and some people may become more sensitive to cold. Patients should take additional precautions when engaging in outdoor winter activities. In addition, they should inform all of their medical and dental care providers that they are taking beta blockers.

Patients who are allergic to foods, medicines or insect stings should be aware that this medication may worsen their reactions to these allergies.