Beta blockers: Are they safe if you have asthma?

Why can't people with asthma take beta blockers?

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Mayo Clinic hypertension specialist Sheldon Sheps, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Beta blockers are medications used to treat many different disorders, including high blood pressure, migraines and heart disease. Beta blockers generally aren't used in people with asthma because of concerns that the medication may trigger severe asthma attacks. However, some research indicates that certain beta blockers — called cardioselective beta blockers — may be a safe and effective treatment for serious heart disease in people with mild asthma. In such cases, close monitoring of asthma is necessary.

If you're taking a beta blocker and experience breathing problems, seek urgent medical care.