Which condition is a contraindication to initiating beta-blocker therapy?

Which condition is a contraindication to initiating beta-blocker therapy?

• A. Asthma
• B. Hypertension
• C. Diabetes mellitus
• D. Hyperlipidemia

Answer: (A)

Beta-blockers block beta receptors, and nonselective agents block both β1 in the heart and β2 in the lungs. In asthma, blocking β2 receptors reduces bronchodilation and can provoke bronchospasm or worsen asthma control. This makes asthma an absolute concern when starting a beta-blocker. Hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are not contraindications; beta-blockers can be used with appropriate monitoring and selection (for example, cardioselective agents may be chosen with caution in some asthma patients).

Beta-blockers block beta receptors, and nonselective agents block both β1 in the heart and β2 in the lungs. In asthma, blocking β2 receptors reduces bronchodilation and can provoke bronchospasm or worsen asthma control. This makes asthma an absolute concern when starting a beta-blocker. Hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are not contraindications; beta-blockers can be used with appropriate monitoring and selection (for example, cardioselective agents may be chosen with caution in some asthma patients).