Beta-blockers are a class of drugs that block the sympathetic nervous system of the heart. They are commonly prescribed for a variety of heart-related issues including high blood pressure, angina, abnormal heart rhythms, heart attack and other health problems such as anxiety, migraine, glaucoma, an overactive thyroid. There are many different types of beta-blockers available on the market and doctors prescribe different forms depending on the various health conditions. For many years, beta-blockers have been know to have side effects, including causing depression and mood swings.

Although beta-blockers have been known to cause depression and mood swings for many years, the results seem to vary from person to person and from drug to drug. Since the 1960s studies have been trying to determine whether or not there is a link between beta-blockers and mood swings and the results seem to remain inconclusive.

For many people, beta blockers can cause mood swings that are quite severe. Depending on the need for the medication, often it just takes some searching before the right beta-blocker can be found.

In some cases, beta-blockers are taken deliberately for the mood changes that they provide. In the performing arts world, talents that experience anxiety or stage fright have found relief by taking beta blockers to reduce their anxiety and enjoy the show.

Beta-blockers may also cause depression and mood swings when they are taken with other drugs. Many drugs cannot be stopped immediately, including beta-blockers so people that experience depression or other adverse mood swings must first wing themselves off beta blockers rather than stopping them cold turkey. Beta-blockers have been associated with an increased risk of symptoms like bipolar disorder and mood stabilization issues.

Some of the reason for beta-blockers may be existing mood disorders and other medications, which is why scientists are still searching for answers after so many years.

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