When two or more medicines are taken at the same time, the effects of one medicine can be altered by the other.

This is sometimes known as a "drug-drug interaction". Beta-blockers, including beta-blocker eye drops, can interact with other medicines.

Some of the more common interactions are listed below. However, this isn't a complete list.

Read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine to check that it's safe to take with beta-blockers. If you're still unsure, you could also ask your GP or pharmacist.

Anti-arrhythmics

Anti-arrhythmics are medicines that control irregular heartbeats. They usually slow the heart down. When taken with beta-blockers, which also slow the heart, there's a small risk of the heart beating too slowly.

Antihypertensives

Antihypertensives are medicines that are used to lower blood pressure. They can cause low blood pressure (hypotension) when taken with beta-blockers.

Antipsychotics

Antipsychotics are medicines used to treat severe mental health problems. Some types of beta-blockers, such as Sotalol, can increase the risk of arrhythmias if they're used by people taking antipsychotics.

Other medication

Some other medicines that are known to interact with beta-blockers are listed below:

• Clonidine is a medicine used to treat high blood pressure and migraine. Rebound hypertension (a sharp and sudden rise in blood pressure) can occur if you stop taking clonidine while taking a beta-blocker.
• Mefloquine can cause a slow heart rate when used with beta-blockers.