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Beta BlockersMedications in this group used to treat anxiety include: Propanolol/Inderol, Pindolol/Visken, Atenolol/Tenormin, Acebutolol/Sectral, Betazolol/Kerlone, Bisoprolol/Ziac or Zebeta, Carteolol/Cartrol, Carvedilol/Coreg, Labetalol/Normodyne or Trandate, Metoprolol/Lopressor, Nadolol/Corgard or Corzide, Penbutolol/Levatol, Timolol/Blocadren or Timolide. Proper use of this medication: * This medication is not habit-forming and does not cause a high feeling. * Take this medication exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it without first consulting with your prescriber. * If you forget a dose, do not take the missed dose when you remember it, but omit it completely, then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. * Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting with your physician. Sudden discontinuation may lead to serious withdrawal symptoms and rapid worsening of symptoms. * Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. * If there is a possibility you may become pregnant or breast feed while taking this medication, consult with your physician. * Store this medication in a cool, safe place away from the reach of children. This medication is usually well tolerated. However, possible side effects may include: * Drowsiness: This is a common side effect. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before driving or using dangerous machinery. * Dizziness: Be careful about standing up quickly, going up and down stairs, and driving. * Low Blood Pressure: Call your prescriber if this becomes a problem. * Slow pulse: Consult with your prescriber if your pulse is much slower than usual or slower than 50 beats per minute. * Breathing difficulty, wheezing, cough: Consult with your prescriber if these occur. * Dry mouth: Drink plenty of fluids. Chew sugarless gum. Suck on sugarless candy. Pay special attention to dental hygiene (brush and floss regularly). * Nausea: An occasional problem. Take the medication with food if this develops. * Vivid dreams and nightmares: May occur. * Sexual dysfunction: If you notice a change in sex drive or functioning, discuss this with your prescriber. * Patients with asthma or diabetes may develop special side effects while taking these medications. The following other medications may require dosage adjustment while taking Beta-blockers: * Other medications which may cause drowsiness (especially benzodiazepines). * Other medications used to lower blood pressure. * Diliazem (Cardizem), Verapamil (Calan). * Cimetidine/Tagamet. * Coumadin/Warfarin. * Theophylline. * Fluoxetine/Prozac. |
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