Situational anxiety affects about 19.1% of adults in the U.S. each year, and it can hit hard in exams, interviews, and on-stage performances. Even though the unease may seem overwhelming, you can cope with it effectively in many ways, including using beta-adrenergic blocking agents.
Beta-blockers are primarily prescribed to people with angina, irregular heart rhythm, and low blood pressure, but they can also reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety like a racing heart, trembling, and sweating. Still, these aren’t over-the-counter medications, so getting them prescribed isn’t that easy.
Find out how to get beta-blockers for anxiety from seasoned specialists without the long lines and overcomplicated procedures, and learn about their essential properties in this helpful guide.
Where Can You Get Beta-Blockers for Anxiety?
To get beta-blockers for anxiety, you need a prescription from your healthcare provider. Even though these drugs aren’t controlled, you must take them under professional supervision to make the most of them and stay safe.
Healthcare professionals who can prescribe beta-blockers include:
- Cardiologists
- General practitioners
- Psychiatrists
Beta-blockers are prescription-only drugs because they can have a significant impact on our bodies. These medicines block the effects of adrenaline, a hormone released when we face real or perceived danger, triggering a “fight or flight” response.
These drugs make the heart beat more slowly and with less force, reducing blood pressure. Beta-blockers also help open up blood vessels to improve blood flow. While these effects can be beneficial, individual reactions vary, so you should have your health status assessed before taking these medications.
How To Take Beta-Blockers for Anxiety
For situational anxiety, beta-blockers are taken as needed, usually two hours before a stressful event, such as a test, interview, debate, or on-stage performance.
The two most commonly prescribed medicines from this group are propranolol and atenolol. When it comes to dosing, the typical atenolol dose for anxiety is 25 mg—100 mg, while that of propranolol is 10 mg—40 mg.
Even though getting and taking these medications for occasional anxiety may seem straightforward, most people find it uncomfortable to tell their healthcare providers the specific reasons for taking beta-blockers, thanks to the stigma attached to taking them for anxiousness.
On the bright side, telemedicine clinics like Kick offer private and quick access to healthcare professionals who can assess your situation and prescribe beta-blockers based on your needs.
Source: RF._.studio
Kick—Convenient Solution for Situational Anxiety
Kick’s performance anxiety program has been a game-changer for many individuals grappling with situational unease, as demonstrated by glowing reviews on Trustpilot. The benefits of joining Kick include:
- Quick visits—The program starts with a 10-minute online consultation, a brief but focused interaction to gather essential information on your health status
- Private and secure—Kick’s platform is secure, and our doctors respect confidentiality, which can be beneficial if you find it challenging to discuss your need for beta-blockers for performance anxiety with healthcare providers in person
- Routine monitoring—Once you join the program, your assigned doctor will be available for any questions or concerns regarding atenolol or propranolol (the two beta-blockers Kick offers) or the program in general
- Discreet and convenient delivery—Your medication will be delivered to your home or local pharmacy in unlabelled packaging to make the process convenient and private
- Risk-free—If our team determines that Kick isn’t the optimal solution for your specific issue, you won’t be charged for the initial consultation, according to our Doctor Guarantee
How To Join Kick
To join Kick’s performance anxiety program, follow three straightforward steps:
- Visit the signup page to start your 10-minute consultation
- Fill out the intake form to help us understand your medical history and determine the best treatment for you
- Provide your delivery and payment details
Our doctor will assess your situation and provide feedback within 24 hours. If you choose express delivery, you’ll receive your medication within two days.
Source: cottonbro studio
Guidelines for Using Beta-Blockers Safely
Whether you’re using beta-blockers for occasional or long-term issues, you should follow specific guidelines. Five helpful tips for using these drugs safely are:
- Adhere to the prescribed dosage
- Stay informed about drug interactions
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation
- Keep track of your progress
- Prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider
Adhere to the Prescribed Dosage
You should take beta-blockers precisely as your doctor prescribes. They’ll carefully calculate the dosage and frequency based on your health status and specific needs. For performance anxiety, you take the prescribed dose one to two hours before the event, which should give the medicine enough time to kick in.
Stay Informed About Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Check out the table below for more details:
This list isn’t exhaustive. Before getting beta-blockers prescribed for anxiety, inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you use.
Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation
Stopping beta-blockers abruptly can lead to serious health problems, including a sudden increase in heart rate or blood pressure. If you need to stop taking beta-blockers, consult your doctor for a safe and gradual discontinuation plan. This recommendation typically doesn’t apply to the occasional use of beta-blockers for performance anxiety, but you should still discuss it with your doctor.
Keep Track of Your Progress
While using beta-blockers, monitor your progress and note any changes in your symptoms. Inform your doctor about any unusual body changes so they can determine whether it’s necessary to adjust the treatment.
Prioritize Open Communication With Your Healthcare Provider
Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider throughout your treatment. Discuss any concerns or questions you may have about the medication, its effects, or your progress.
Source: Mikhail Nilov
What Are the Side Effects of Beta-Blockers?
Beta-blockers carry the risk of side effects, although patients who follow the mentioned guidelines rarely experience them. Check out the table below for a detailed breakdown of the common unwanted reactions to these drugs:
This list isn’t exhaustive. If you experience unusual symptoms while on beta-blockers, inform your healthcare provider immediately. They’ll assess your response to these medications and adjust the dosage if necessary.
Who Shouldn’t Take Beta-Blockers?
While beta-blockers can help you cope with situational anxiety, they’re not meant for everyone, including people with the following conditions:
- Asthma—While atenolol is generally safe for people with asthma, propranolol may cause airways to narrow, making breathing more difficult. People with asthma should consult their doctors on the proper use of atenolol to avoid unwanted reactions
- Bradycardia—These drugs can further slow the heart rate, potentially leading to fatigue, dizziness, or fainting
- Heart block or sick sinus syndrome—Particular heart conditions can be worsened by beta-blockers
- Severe peripheral artery disease—These medications can reduce blood flow to the hands and feet, exacerbating symptoms
- Allergy to beta-blockers—People who are allergic to any component of a beta-blocker should avoid these medications
Discuss your health history and current health status with your doctor so they can determine whether beta-blockers are safe and effective for you.
Source: Wendy Wei
What Are the Alternatives to Beta-Blockers for Performance Anxiety?
Individuals with chronic social or generalized anxiety disorders typically can’t benefit from beta-blockers and need an encompassing treatment. If your doctor decides you’re not the best candidate for beta-blockers, they may recommend alternatives, including:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Regular physical exercise
- Diet and nutrition
- Support groups
- Other drugs for anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals manage anxiety by changing negative thought patterns. CBT can be effective when dealing with chronic unease and panic attacks and typically entails the following:
- Identifying negative thoughts and behaviors
- Challenging these thoughts and learning to replace them with positive ones
- Developing coping strategies for different situations
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness techniques focus on cultivating a heightened state of awareness and relaxation. Practices include meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. They can help reduce anxiety by:
- Promoting a state of relaxation and calm
- Enhancing awareness of the present moment to reduce worries about the past or future
- Improving concentration and focus
Regular Physical Exercise
Various studies suggest that regular physical activity is a powerful mood booster. It can help reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health. Exercise stimulates the body’s production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. It also promotes better sleep, reduces stress, and boosts self-esteem.
Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a high-intensity workout, find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine.
Diet and Nutrition
What we eat can also impact our mood and stress levels. Certain dietary changes can help manage anxiety symptoms:
- Reduce caffeine and sugar intake—Both can cause energy spikes and crashes throughout the day, affecting mood
- Increase consumption of omega-3 fatty acids—Foods rich in omega-3s, like salmon and flaxseeds, can help keep anxiety in check
- Maintain a balanced diet—A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide the nutrients necessary for good mental health
Support Groups
Support groups provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can share your experiences, learn from others, and gain emotional support. For example, knowing that others are going through similar situations can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation and social anxiety.
Members also share tricks that have helped them manage their anxiety, providing practical advice you might not get elsewhere. Having a space to express your feelings and fears can also bring emotional relief.
Other Drugs for Anxiety
Chronic and generalized anxiety can be treated with other effective drugs, which can be taken long-term. Depending on your condition, your doctor will recommend the best medications for you. The most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety drugs are:
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Valium, Klonopin)
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs)
- Buspirone
For long-lasting results in anxiety treatment, it’s best to combine effective medications with therapy and meaningful lifestyle changes.
Featured image source: Anna Shvets
