Which is a common side effect of beta-blockers?

Fatigue is a well-documented side effect of beta-blockers, which are primarily used to manage conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and certain types of arrhythmias. Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to a decrease in heart rate and contractility. While this action can be beneficial for reducing heart workload and controlling blood pressure, it can also lead to a feeling of tiredness or lethargy in some patients.

In addition to fatigue, beta-blockers may also affect energy levels due to their role in inhibiting sympathetic nervous system responses. The body may have a lower overall state of alertness as the drug suppresses excitatory neurotransmitters. This can manifest as fatigue, which might be more noticeable during increased physical activity or stress.

Understanding this side effect is important for patient education and management. Patients experiencing significant fatigue may require dosage adjustments or a switch to a different class of medication, depending on their overall treatment plan and response to therapy.