Many use beta blockers for anxiety, but is it effective?

Beta blockers, typically prescribed for heart conditions, are increasingly being used to manage anxiety, particularly in high-pressure situations like public speaking. Two years ago, I started taking them after being asked to give a eulogy, a daunting task for someone who struggles with public speaking. My experience reflects a growing trend among friends and acquaintances who also turn to beta blockers for help with anxiety.

Beta blockers work by blocking adrenaline’s effects, which can reduce symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, and sweating—common reactions during anxiety-inducing situations. Dr. Amir Khan, a GP with 16 years of experience, explains that these medications can alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety, making it easier for individuals to function during stressful moments. Unlike other anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines and antidepressants, beta blockers are perceived as lower risk and less stigmatizing. A study from the University of Bristol noted that prescription rates for beta blockers have surged, especially among women and young people, who are often more open about their anxiety.

In my conversations with friends, many shared their experiences with beta blockers. One friend, a mother, said, “I never leave home without them,” highlighting their common use among parents managing daily stress. Another friend takes beta blockers to cope with perimenopausal anxiety, alongside other lifestyle changes like yoga and meditation. This suggests a growing acceptance of beta blockers as a viable option for situational anxiety.

While anecdotal evidence supports the effectiveness of beta blockers, the University of Bristol study concluded that there is no definitive proof of their efficacy for anxiety treatment. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) does not include beta blockers in its guidelines for treating anxiety, favoring selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and talking therapies instead. Dr. Khan notes that beta blockers are typically recommended for situational anxiety rather than as a long-term solution.

My own experience with beta blockers began when my doctor recommended them before my eulogy. She advised me to practice beforehand rather than trying them for the first time on the actual day. After taking them, I felt calm and managed to deliver the eulogy without incident.

However, beta blockers are not suitable for everyone. Side effects can include tiredness, dizziness, and insomnia, and they are contraindicated for individuals with asthma. Dr. Adrian Hayter from the Royal College of General Practitioners emphasizes that GPs take a holistic approach when prescribing medication, considering a patient’s medical history and symptoms.

Beta blockers do not carry the risk of addiction, but patients using them long-term should not stop suddenly. Dr. Khan warns that they have been associated with increased rates of depression, which is a concern for those already experiencing mental health issues.

The demand for mental health services is rising, with many individuals facing anxiety related to work and life challenges. I recently experienced this firsthand after losing my job of 20 years due to budget cuts, which triggered significant anxiety. After discussing my situation with my doctor, I began taking beta blockers three times daily, which have helped me cope during this difficult period. While we considered antidepressants, they did not seem appropriate given the situational nature of my anxiety.

Regular medication reviews are essential, as GPs aim to avoid long-term reliance on beta blockers. I hope to eventually reduce my dosage or stop taking them altogether. However, if faced with another high-pressure speaking event, I would likely consult my doctor again for support. The increasing conversation around beta blockers among friends and public figures highlights a shift in how society views anxiety management, but the effectiveness and appropriateness of these medications still warrant careful consideration.