Should I take a beta-blocker?

If you’ve had a heart attack, you should talk to your doctor about taking a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers make it easier for the heart to beat normally. When taken long-term, beta-blockers can reduce the risk of a second heart attack. They also increase your chances of surviving a second heart attack. You may recognize one of these beta-blockers: atenolol (Tenormin^TM), metoprolol (Lopressor^TM and Toprol XL^TM), carvedilol (Coreg^TM), and propranolol (Indera^TM). Beta-blockers may not be right for everyone, but consider these suggestions:

• If your doctor has written a beta-blocker prescription that you have not had filled, have it filled as soon as possible and take it as directed.
  
• If you have taken a beta-blocker in the past but have not gotten it refilled, have it filled as soon as possible and take it as directed.
• If you do not have a beta-blocker prescription or you are unsure whether you received one, talk to your doctor to find out whether a beta-blocker is right for you.