what's it like taking beta-blockers?

[secunda]

I've googled, but the information is quite broad because they are used for heart disorders. Also when I googled the first thing that came up was a page saying 'Don't take them!'. So I don't know.

I get random panic attacks, not very frequently, but also can have periods of generalised anxiety that go on for a few weeks. Summer is bad for me because it reminds me of bad things that have happened.

I have had counselling, loads of it. It was kind of helpful, but hasn't fixed anything. Previously the dr prescribed diazepam, but only 14 tablets in six months because it's so addictive. During my last period of anxiety, she suggested beta blockers, but I had a big work project coming up so she didn't want to give me anything that might interfere with that, so she gave me a limited supply of diazepam to see me through.

So I get the feeling the next few weeks/months are going to be bad. I have unwanted images in my head, nightmares and general shit-feelingness, think it's only going to get worse.

So I am thinking of going back and getting the beta-blockers, and was wondering if anyone wanted to share experiences.

tia

My MIL takes them to prevent heart attack or stroke as she has high cholesterol. She hasn't had any problems at all.
I suffer from anxiety and take prozac. It isn't very popular now but I find it like sunshine in a bottle. When I get unwell I know that it will soon fix me. You could try it I think people either love it on hate it.

thanks. I was prescribed prozac but looked at the side effects and was too scared to take it. Another question is whether you have to take beta blockers over a longer period like prozac or do you just pop one when you feel shit?

I take beta blockers for my anxiety (propranolol). I don't take them every day, I just use them like an 'insurance' type thing.. I know that if I start ot have a panic attack I can take them and within 15mins I start to calm down. I knwo that if I take one I will start to feel better soon. But they are only good for the physical type attacks- the ones that come from no where, your heart is racing your going to die type attacks, they literally slow your heart down and regulate the palpitations. They are no good for your head, and the general anxiety.

I always take one when I am hungover, as I know that sets me off.... it's all about knwoing yourself, and living with anxiety.

I find them a god send just to know I have them, and I panick if I am out without them ironically, no negative side effects at all. Propranolol is a gentle drug.

Not sure whether it is a placibo, but when I have bad physical attacks, I know if I take one I will feel better soon.

You have nothing to loose, but don't expect them to fix your issues, just the physical symptoms

HTH

Thanks. being hungover sets me off too! I would far rather not have any medication, but counselling doesn't really crack it