Name a common side effect of beta-blockers.

Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed medications that can manage conditions like hypertension, arrhythmias, and heart failure. A well-known side effect of beta-blockers is fatigue. This occurs because beta-blockers reduce the heart's workload and lower blood pressure, leading to a decrease in overall energy levels and an increased sense of tiredness in some patients.

Many patients report feeling more fatigued or lethargic when starting beta-blocker therapy, which can impact their daily activities and overall quality of life. This side effect is especially important to monitor, as it may influence adherence to the medication regimen.

In contrast, dizziness can also be a side effect associated with blood pressure changes but is less specifically linked to beta-blockers compared to fatigue. Increased energy is contrary to what patients typically experience when using beta-blockers, as these medications generally have a calming effect on the cardiovascular system. A rapid heartbeat, or tachycardia, is usually not a side effect of beta-blockers; in fact, these drugs are used to help reduce heart rate. Thus, fatigue stands out as a primary and commonly recognized side effect of this class of medication.