The fact is that Beta Blockers do have a role to play in the management of hypertensions.
As an example, hypertensive blacks have a 28% decrease in mortality following an acute MI if placed on Beta Blockers.
Blacks and Asians also have a greater amount of angioedema and cough when placed on ACE inhibitors. ALL medications should be prescribed in a thoughtful manner and in full consideration of the big picture.
BTW, many of my patients who have chronic migraines do very well with low dose beta blockers. A nice side effect that occurs with beta blockers is that patients tend to be a bit less crabby, a side effect that is noticed by many spouses. ;-)
Thanks for the info. I am sure there are situations, when some drugs are more appropriate than others, but as I understand doctors tend to typically prescribe beta blockers as a first drug, willy nilly.
I knew several friends who have had terrible side affects, such as not being able to go up a flight of stairs without almost passing out, though they were in excellent physical shape, used to run several miles a day. Needless to say, when the doctor changed their meds, they were fine again.
I think the point is that beta blockers shouldn't be the first blood pressure medication prescribed for everyone.