Beta blockers offer temporary relief for anxiety, says psychiatrist Dr. Max Pemberton

Beta blockers, long used to treat high blood pressure and heart rhythm problems, are increasingly prescribed off-label to ease the physical symptoms of anxiety. Propranolol and atenolol are among the most common options. Doctors say the drugs can blunt the bodily sensations that make anxiety feel overwhelming—racing heart, sweating, trembling hands, and shortness of breath—especially when people face a feared event such as a public speech or a high-pressure interview. Proponents emphasize that for some patients the medication offers a practical, non-addictive way to regain control in moments of acute stress.

The drugs work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which in turn dampens the body’s fight-or-flight response. A racing heart beats less forcefully, blood pressure lowers, and the other telltale adrenaline-driven symptoms—sweating, rapid breathing and trembling—are mitigated. Beta blockers have a long history: propranolol was developed in 1962 by Sir James Black in Scotland and was originally used to treat high blood pressure and arrhythmias. Over time, clinicians observed that these same medications could blunt the physiological manifestations of anxiety, making them a practical option for people who struggle primarily with physical symptoms rather than deep-seated distress.

The evidence behind beta blockers for anxiety is mixed. Some studies show they help reduce performance anxiety and associated symptoms, while others yield more equivocal results. In general, they are considered less effective for longstanding or severe anxiety disorders when compared with antidepressants or psychotherapy. Medical guidelines typically reserve beta blockers for situational anxiety—such as before a public appearance, a big meeting, or a one-off stress trigger—rather than as a blanket treatment for chronic anxiety.

Celebrity and clinical anecdotes highlight the mixed picture. Hollywood figures such as Kristen Bell, Rachel Sennott and Natasha Rothwell have mentioned taking beta blockers ahead of public appearances, while Khloé Kardashian and Robert Downey Jr. have acknowledged past use. Dr. Max Pemberton, speaking from his own experience, notes that in his early career propranolol helped him manage nerves before live TV and radio appearances. He describes a ritual: take a small dose about an hour before going on air, feel calmer, and find himself able to perform more comfortably. In his telling, a later moment—a forgotten dose on the way to a studio—still left him unfazed, which led him to wonder whether the benefit may have included a placebo effect. He has since observed that beta blockers can be lifesaving for some people but may be less reliable for others.

Beyond individual anecdotes, the tool remains targeted rather than universal. Dr. Pemberton emphasizes that beta blockers address the physical symptoms of anxiety rather than the underlying psychological distress that can fuel those symptoms. For people who experience performance anxiety, they can provide a temporary respite that enables relief and confidence during a stressful event. For others whose anxiety runs deeper and more persistent, a broader treatment plan—often including therapy and/or longer-term medications—may be more appropriate.

The personal stories carry a similar thread: a single medication can transform a nerve-wracked moment into a manageable experience, while others see little effect. A clinician’s role is to tailor therapy to the patient, weighing the benefits of symptom control against potential side effects and interactions with other medicines. Side effects can include fatigue, dizziness, and, in some cases, cardiovascular or airway considerations that make beta blockers unsuitable for people with certain conditions or with asthma.

In a broader sense, the health community continues to examine how best to support people who wrestle with anxiety. A separate reflection drawn from public figures’ life stories—such as the late Robert Redford—offers a reminder that resilience can emerge from adversity. Dr. Pemberton describes how reading obituaries and life histories can be a meaningful way for patients to gain perspective on suffering, perseverance and achievement, a practice he sometimes recommends to patients seeking motivation and hope in the face of illness.

As autumn arrives, Dr. Pemberton also notes a common but separate health thread: vitamin D deficiency becomes more prevalent with shorter days and less sun exposure. He recommends checking levels with a GP, and if deficient, taking vitamin D3 rather than D2, noting that D3 tends to be more easily absorbed. He emphasizes that supplementation should be guided by blood tests and medical advice, not self-prescribing.

For those considering beta blockers for anxiety, medical guidance remains essential. They are not a universal solution, but for some individuals they can offer an important degree of anxiety control—enabling participation in daily life, performance settings, or high-stress moments with greater calm. Patients should discuss potential benefits, risks, and alternatives with a GP or mental health professional to determine whether this approach fits their specific circumstances.