Beta-Blockers for Agoraphobia

Can beta-blockers help agoraphobia?

Beta-blockers, including Inderal and Tenormin, are primarily used for hypertension but are sometimes prescribed to reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety (shaking, trembling, rapid heart rate, and blushing). When used to treat phobias, beta-blockers are best used to treat specific phobias because they counteract the physical symptoms of the fear.

Beta-blockers are popular among musicians and other stage performers who use them to reduce performance anxiety. They are also popular among people with social phobia for use in anxiety-producing social situations. Since they are limited to suppressing the physical symptoms of fear, beta-blockers are not usually prescribed for long-tem treatment of agoraphobia. Also, since the primary function of beta-blockers is to lower the blood pressure of people with hypertension, be careful about taking beta-blockers for anxiety if you have low blood pressure.

Article Source: http://www.agoraphobia.net

Stephen Price is a recovered agoraphobic with a master’s degree in psychology. His informational website on agoraphobia featuring a free newsletter can be found at: www.agoraphobia.ws

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