Beta blockers or Calcium Channel Blockers?

[Gayle07]

I was initially put on Verapamil (Calcium channel blocker) because of a mis-diagnosis of Asthma from my regular doctor. Once my cardiologist ruled out asthma I thought I would then be suitable for a beta blocker as the whole reason for using Verapamil instead of BB's was lung issues.

Anyhow, my question is.... The side effects of Verapamil is really beginning to bother me and since I may now qualify for a BB should I ask my cardiologist to switch me to one? What are the side effects of beta blockers and since they are the most used drugs for HCM wouldn't that be a better choice for me? Even though I'm over a year out from my myectomy I still feel short of breath and have a terribly rapid heart beat especially upon exertion. Any feedback I can get on the BB's would be appreciated and helpful to me in making my decision.

I sure appreciate this board. Thank you to EVERYONE who helps make this a great resourse.

[Cynaburst]

Finding the right medication is often a trial and error process. I have tried three different drugs for my HCM (all beta blockers either alone or combined with different drugs) and I am just now about to add in a calcium channel blocker along with my BB. It is all very individual and you can have different needs over time.

If you would like to try a BB, just ask your doc. They do have side effects like fatigue, cold extremeties, slower heart rate and lower blood pressure, but you get used to them over time. You might feel better, but you won't know until you try.

There are certain BBs that are cardioselective, like Toprol for instance, which can even be used in people with asthma although carefully, of course.

[harrisb01]

Hi
Recently I switched from BBs to CCBs and it has reduced the discomfort and pain I was feeling in my chest. If that is also an issue for you, it's something to consider and you should mention it to your doc.
Best wishes!
Barbara

[gkfalwell]

Our daughter had a heart attack and was diagnosed with HCM. At first they said she would need medication, then they said she would not, only and AICD. Since then they started beta blockers to reduce "neuro-agitation" when she was in the Hershey PICU. Now we are at Kennedy Krieger rehab center and a Cardiologist (not HCM specialist) said that all patients with HCM take beta blockers, does that sound right? We are concerned because our daughter is also type I Diabetic and has trouble with bad lows, and some research we did said that beta blockers should be avoided with Diabetics since they mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (insulin reaction). Any suggestions on what we should ask I'll take 'em! THanks...

[Cynaburst]

If you are at Hopkins you should ask for a consult with Dr. Ted Abraham who is the HCM specialist there. He could best advise you about drugs. It is true that many people with HCM take beta blockers, but I am not sure how that interacts with her diabetes.

Also, I believe that your daughter suffered a cardiac arrest and not a myocardial infarction which is commonly known as a "heart attack." I am glad to see that she is doing well enough that you are deciding what drugs she will take when she is discharged.