In managing heart failure, which of the following is a potential side effect of beta-blockers?

In managing heart failure, which of the following is a potential side effect of beta-blockers?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Increased myocardial contractility
• D. Hyperglycemia

Answer: (B)

Beta-blockers in heart failure can slow the heart down, so bradycardia is a real potential side effect. By blocking beta-1 receptors in the heart, these drugs reduce heart rate and slow conduction through the AV node, which helps the heart work more efficiently but can become too slow if the dose isn’t titrated carefully. Clinically, watch for a resting pulse very low or new dizziness or fatigue, and be prepared to hold the medication or adjust the dose if needed. Hypertension is not the typical adverse effect; beta-blockers generally lower blood pressure rather than raise it. Increased myocardial contractility would go opposite the drug’s action, since they decrease contractility. Hyperglycemia is not a common direct side effect; they may affect glucose tolerance or mask hypoglycemia symptoms rather than cause high blood sugar.

Beta-blockers in heart failure can slow the heart down, so bradycardia is a real potential side effect. By blocking beta-1 receptors in the heart, these drugs reduce heart rate and slow conduction through the AV node, which helps the heart work more efficiently but can become too slow if the dose isn’t titrated carefully. Clinically, watch for a resting pulse very low or new dizziness or fatigue, and be prepared to hold the medication or adjust the dose if needed.

Hypertension is not the typical adverse effect; beta-blockers generally lower blood pressure rather than raise it. Increased myocardial contractility would go opposite the drug’s action, since they decrease contractility. Hyperglycemia is not a common direct side effect; they may affect glucose tolerance or mask hypoglycemia symptoms rather than cause high blood sugar.