BB and triglycerides

Q: Most beta-blockers modestly _____________ the triglycerides? (select one)

A) decreases

B) increases

Answer: B

Beta-blockers (BB) have independent effects on serum lipids. 

Most BB, including atenolol, metoprolol, and propranolol, increases the triglycerides by 20-40 percent. Also, they decrease the HDL by 10 percent, though overall, there is little effect on total cholesterol or LDL. This effect is more pronounced in smokers.

BB with alpha effects, such as labetalol and carvedilol, has less effect on triglycerides. Nebivolol is one unique cardioselective beta 1 adrenergic receptor blocker with a neutral effect.

Overall, BB has a beneficial effect due to its safe and strong anti-hypertensive properties, and it should not hold clinicians back from using it along with statins.

#pharmacology

References:

1. Kasiske BL, Ma JZ, Kalil RS, Louis TA. Effects of antihypertensive therapy on serum lipids. Ann Intern Med 1995; 122:133.

2. Vyssoulis GP, Karpanou EA, Pitsavos CE, et al. Dyslipidemic effects of cigarette smoking on beta-blocker-induced serum lipid changes in systemic hypertension. Am J Cardiol 1991; 67:987.

3. Wolinsky H. The effects of beta-adrenergic blocking agents on blood lipid levels. Clin Cardiol 1987; 10:561.