Betachron ER: Side Effects, Overdose and Pregnancy Information

Betachron ER is a type of drug known as a Beta-blocker. Beta-blockers such as Betachron ER are used to treat hypertension, migraine headaches, glaucoma, anxiety, and various other disorders. There are two main types of beta-receptors: β₁-receptors located mainly in the heart, and β₂-receptors located in other parts of the body. Most beta-blockers affect both type 1 and type 2 receptors; they block these receptors resulting in lowering the blood pressure and have calming effect and therefore are also prescribed for anxiety and migraine headaches. Betachron ER should not be given to patients with asthma or any respiratory disease. Betachron ER does not cure high blood pressure; it simply keeps it under control by blocking nerve impulses, which slows the heart rate. Betachron ER must not be stopped abruptly. That could cause heart attack, stroke or even death. Prescribed dose should be reduced gradually. Betachron ER should be taken regularly for it to be effective. It may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Betachron ER.

BETACHRON ER SIDE EFFECTS

Common side effects of Betachron ER include impotence, general fatigue, dizziness, loss of libido, and nausea. Rare side effects of Betachron ER may include constipation,depression, diarrhea, dizziness upon standing up, drowsiness, light-headedness, tiredness, vertigo, and wheezing.

Betachron ER Caution

Talk to your physician if you have asthma, seasonal allergies, other bronchial condition, heart problems, kidney disease, liver disease, low blood pressure.

Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time of your next scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

As with any drug, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.

Betachron ER interactions

Tell your physician about any medicine or herbs you are taking. Following drugs interacts with Betachron ER:

Alcohol
Ampicillin and other antibiotics may interfere in the effectiveness of Betachron ER.
Antacids
Aspirin or aspirin containing drugs.
Blood pressure drugs
Calcium supplements
Ephedra
Ginseng
Insulin
Other diabetes drugs such as Quinidine
Saw palmetto

Betachron ER Doses

Betachron ER should be taken without food.

Adults
High Blood Pressure:
The usual starting dose range from 80-240mg, divided into 2 doses a day.

Angina:
80-320 mg a day, divided into 2-4 doses.

Migraine:
80-240mg divided in several doses.

Children
The safety and effectiveness of Betachron ER has not been established in children.

Seniors
Your doctor will determine the dosage.

Betachron ER Overdose

Symptoms of Betachron ER overdose may include congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, slow heartbeat, short breath, sluggishness, weakness and seizures.

In case of Betachron ER overdose, seek medical attention right away.