Final answer:
Beta-blockers, used for high blood pressure, can cause agitation, anxiety, and sleep problems as well as digestive issues, abnormal heart rhythms, and muscular problems. They slow the heart rate by blocking specific receptors, but overuse can lead to severe conditions like bradycardia. Long-term use may increase risks of other serious health problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beta-blockers are a class of medication commonly used to manage high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. While effective, they can also lead to a range of side effects. Some individuals may experience agitation and anxiety, which can contribute to sleep problems such as insomnia. Other digestive issues, such as nausea and vomiting, indigestion, and changes in weight, may occur. Beta-blockers can also impact the heart rhythm, occasionally leading to abnormal heart rhythms, and affect blood pressure, sometimes resulting in low blood pressure. Muscular problems are another reported side effect.
Beta-blockers work by binding to certain receptors in the heart muscle, blocking substances like adrenaline. This slows the heart rate, which is why they are prescribed for hypertension. However, misuse or overprescription can cause serious conditions such as bradycardia (slow heart rate) or even heart stoppage. Moreover, when considering long-term side effects, there is an increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and macular degeneration, among others.