When beta blockers are used

Beta blockers aren't recommended as a first treatment in people who have only high blood pressure. Beta blockers aren't usually prescribed for high blood pressure unless other medications, such as diuretics, haven't worked well. Also, a doctor may prescribe a beta blocker as one of several medications to lower blood pressure.

Beta blockers may not work as effectively for black people and older people, especially when taken without other blood pressure medications.

Beta blockers are used to prevent, treat or improve symptoms in people who have:

• Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• Heart failure
• Chest pain (angina)
• Heart attacks
• Migraine
• Certain types of tremors

Your doctor may prescribe beta blockers along with other medications.