Which is an adverse effect of beta blockers?

Which is an adverse effect of beta blockers?

• A. Bronchospasm
• B. Weight Gain
• C. Gout Flare
• D. Insomnia

Answer: (A)

Blocking beta receptors can produce bronchospasm because beta-2 receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle, when inhibited, allow the airways to constrict. This is more likely with nonselective beta blockers that block both beta-1 (heart) and beta-2 (lungs) receptors, making bronchospasm a key adverse effect, especially in people with asthma or COPD. Cardioselective beta-1 blockers mainly affect the heart and carry a lower risk of bronchospasm at usual doses, though the risk can rise with higher doses or in sensitive individuals. Other options aren’t classic adverse effects of beta blockers. Weight gain isn’t a defining, consistent reaction for the class; gout flares are more associated with diuretics like thiazides; insomnia can occur with lipophilic agents that cross into the brain but bronchospasm remains the most clinically important airway-related adverse effect.

Blocking beta receptors can produce bronchospasm because beta-2 receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle, when inhibited, allow the airways to constrict. This is more likely with nonselective beta blockers that block both beta-1 (heart) and beta-2 (lungs) receptors, making bronchospasm a key adverse effect, especially in people with asthma or COPD. Cardioselective beta-1 blockers mainly affect the heart and carry a lower risk of bronchospasm at usual doses, though the risk can rise with higher doses or in sensitive individuals.

Other options aren’t classic adverse effects of beta blockers. Weight gain isn’t a defining, consistent reaction for the class; gout flares are more associated with diuretics like thiazides; insomnia can occur with lipophilic agents that cross into the brain but bronchospasm remains the most clinically important airway-related adverse effect.