MEDICATION ALERT: Just like the wolf in "Red Riding Hood" disguises itself to go unnoticed, beta blockers can mask the usual warning signs of hypoglycemia—like a hidden wolf—making the symptoms less apparent and potentially more dangerous.

Beta blockers are versatile medications commonly used to manage migraines, blood pressure, and heart conditions, (and they also have several other applications.)

  1. Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol-XL)

  2. Atenolol (Tenormin)

  3. Bisoprolol (Zebeta)

  4. Nadolol (Corgard)

  5. Carvedilol (Coreg)

  6. Sotalol (Betapace)

  7. Timolol (Blocadren)

  8. Nebivolol (Bystolic)

  9. Propranolol (Inderal, Hemangeol)

These drugs work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, a hormone crucial in the body's response to low blood sugar.

By doing so, beta blockers can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking, which are vital warning signs. This effect requires individuals, especially those with diabetes, to monitor their blood sugar levels closely when on these medications.

If you are taking any one of these medications, just be extra vigilant as the normal warning signs of a low blood sugar may not occur! DO NOT STOP TAKING THEM UNLESS ADVISED BY YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM.