What is the effect of beta-blockers on asthma patients?

Beta-blockers are known to have a significant effect on asthma patients, particularly in relation to exacerbating symptoms. The main action of beta-blockers is to block the beta-adrenergic receptors, which are involved in the relaxation of airway smooth muscle. In individuals with asthma, this receptor blockade can lead to bronchoconstriction, resulting in an increase in airway resistance and worsening of respiratory symptoms.

Asthma is characterized by hyperreactivity of the airways, and the use of non-selective beta-blockers—those that block both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors—can lead to a detrimental effect on airway diameter and increase the risk of asthma exacerbations. Even in some instances of selective beta-1 blockers, caution is advised as they can still have cross-reactivity with beta-2 receptors at higher doses or in sensitive individuals.

Due to this potential adverse effect, beta-blockers are generally not recommended for use in asthma patients, particularly those with moderate to severe forms of the disease. This makes the choice indicating that beta-blockers can potentially worsen asthma symptoms the most accurate in this context.