The zombie-like state, the emotional numbness are known side effects of beta blockers. Beta blockers are medicines that help calm the heart by blocking adrenaline. Adrenaline is a hormone that makes the heart beat faster and stronger. When beta blockers block it, the heart rate slows, and blood pressure drops. This protects the heart from working too hard. Doctors use beta blockers to manage heart issues, anxiety, and even migraines.
Feeling Like a Zombie
Some people taking this medicines describe an unusual side effect of beta blockers. They don’t feel tired or sleepy, it’s different. Instead, they feel emotionally numb or distant, like there’s a wall between them and the world. They find it hard to feel happiness, sadness, excitement, or even anger. They describe this state as being “like a zombie,” disconnected from their emotions and surroundings.
Why Does This Happen?
What is the work mechanism of such side effects of beta blockers? This emotional numbness happens because certain beta blockers enter the brain. Medicines like propranolol are called lipophilic beta blockers. “Lipophilic” means they easily pass through the blood-brain barrier, a natural protection around the brain. Once inside the brain, these medicines interfere with chemicals called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, help control feelings and moods. When they’re disrupted, you might feel emotionally flat.
How Common Is It?
Not everyone experiences this zombie-like feeling. Research shows around 15% to 20% of people on beta blockers report some emotional numbing or detachment. It happens more often with non-selective beta blockers like propranolol, which affect the whole body, including the brain. Selective beta blockers that target mainly the heart, such as bisoprolol and nebivolol, usually don’t cause this side effect as often.
Dealing With Emotional Numbness
If you feel emotionally numb on a beta blocker, don’t ignore it. You shouldn’t stop taking your medicine suddenly, because that can harm your heart. Instead, talk to your doctor. Be clear about what you’re feeling. You could say something like, “Since starting this beta blocker, I feel emotionally numb. I don’t feel joy, sadness, or excitement like I used to. Could this medicine be causing it?” Your doctor can adjust your dose or switch you to a different medication.
Beta Blockers Less Likely to Cause Numbness
Some beta blockers are less likely to cause emotional numbness. Bisoprolol and nebivolol are selective beta blockers. They mainly work on the heart and are less likely to cross into the brain. Because of this, they’re usually a better choice if you’re sensitive to emotional side effects.
When to See Your Doctor
If this zombie-like feeling continues or worsens, it’s important to see your doctor. Also, if you start losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, tell your doctor. This could signal that your medicine needs changing. Remember, you don’t have to accept emotional numbness as normal.
