Ventolin & Betablockers

[bruce1]

Does anyone have any thoughts. Had some episodes of coughing so Doc gives me an inhaler. Taking 12mg of Metropolol BD. I know Ventolin is a Beta agonist and the other is a blocker. I'm confused here.

[BobD Volunteer]

Beta blockers should never be prescribed to asthmatics or those who may be borderline. I have never been diagnosed asthmatic but am borderline as beta blockers made me very breathless. I think you maybe need to have another chat with your doctor.

[bruce1 in reply to BobD]

Thanks Bob. Seeing the Cardio Wednesday so I won't mix drugs in the meantime. Just a dose of flu I guess.

[jackmccready]

There are slight differences. Metoprolol acts mainly on the heart (beta 1) and ventolin acts mainly on the lungs (beta 2) but there is some cross effect.

Asthmatics and people with COPD can often take beta blockers without problem but they are prescribed with caution.