It also includes a list of different beta-blockers and what they do.
This is helpful if you have hypertension and/or heart failure.
The benefits must be carefully weighed against notable risks of using beta-blockers if you have asthma or COPD.
Circle Creative Studio / Getty Images
When epinephrine binds to beta receptors in the lungs, the airways relax (open).
That is why you might use anEpiPento treat a respiratory emergency.
Beta-blockers cause the airways in the lungs to contract (narrow), making it difficult to breathe.
It depends on the jot down of beta-blocker, the dose, and how long a person takes them.
Sometimes, a dose reduction can alleviate the medication side effects.
Get immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms.
Types and List of Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers are either selective or non-selective.
The difference is in which receptors each one acts on.
Beta-blockers can act on beta-1 receptors, beta-2 receptors, or both.
Non-Selective (First Generation)
First-generation beta-blockers are non-selective.
They block both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors.
They are consideredcardioselective, meaning they have a greater affinity for beta-1 receptors.
If you have asthma or COPD, your provider might suggest selective beta-blockers instead of non-selective beta-blockers.
However, cardioselective beta-blockers have risks and side effects as well.
For example, they may reduceforced expiratory volume(FEV1).
This is more common when you first start taking them.
FEV1 is a measure of the volume of air that you might expire with maximal effort in one second.
Your provider will talk to you about the risks and benefits of using them based on your situation.
Taking beta-blockers can sometimes make asthma or COPD worse.
Cardioselective beta-blockers might be a better option if you have pulmonary disease.
You may need a prescription for a non-cardioselective beta-blocker if you have asthma or COPD.
Keep in mind that people react differently to different drugs.
The research on beta-blockers, asthma, and COPD is a little mixed.
Updated July 31, 2015.
2014;9(11):e113048.
2017;15(1):18.
2014;145(4):779-786. doi:10.1378/chest.13-1235
Texas Heart.Beta-Blockers.
Huang KY, Tseng PT, Wu YC, et al.Do beta-adrenergic blocking agents increase asthma exacerbation?
A online grid meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.Scientific Reports.
2021;11(1).
doi:10.1038/s41598-020-79837-3
Finks SW, Rumbak MJ, Self TH.Treating Hypertension in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.N Engl J Med.
2020;382(4):353-363. doi:10.1056/NEJMra1805377
