Posted by ed_uk on January 27, 2005, at 15:15:52
In reply to Re: Treating side effects » zeugma, posted by ed_uk on January 27, 2005, at 14:32:58
> Most non-cardioselective beta-blockers (eg. propranolol) can cause vasoconstriction so it would be sensible to avoid them.
Theoretically, it is possible that combining a non-cardioselective beta blocker with an amphetamine or methylphenidate may cause vasoconstriction and hypertension. The UK Dexedrine data sheet warns of this. Although atenolol would be expected to be safe, the UK data sheet for generic atenolol still suggests that it should not be combined with an amphetamine..... there are several possible reasons for this.......
1) The interaction has received little study.
2) Amphetamines are usually contra-indicated in people needing beta-blockers eg. patients with angina etc.
3) Amphetamines may reduce the beneficial effects of beta-blockers in the treatment of hypertension, angina etc.
4) Atenolol is not completely selective for the beta-1 receptor, it is theoretically possible that combining atenolol with an amphetamine may result in increased vasoconstriction and hypertension. Personally, I think this is highly improbable, atenolol would be more likely to reduce BP. In general, atenolol would be expected to be an effective and relatively safe treatment for the tachycardia and chest pain that stimulants can induce.Ed.
poster:ed_uk
thread:446337
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050124/msgs/448743.html