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Context:
Beta-blockers, drugs prescribed commonly to people suffering from irregular heartbeat and hypertension among other ailments, can lead to dangerously low potassium levels or hypokalaemia, the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has warned.
Beta-blockers
Beta blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are a class of drugs that slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure.
- How they work
- Beta blockers block the action of hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, which can cause the heart to beat faster and harder. This slows the heart rate and reduces the force of blood being pumped around the body. Some beta blockers also relax blood vessels.
- Uses
- Beta blockers are used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain (angina)
- Abnormal heart rate (arrhythmia)
- Congestive heart failure
- Beta blockers are used to treat a variety of conditions, including: