Heart Medication Regains Popularity Among Anxious Individuals and Raises Concerns

Betablockers can help reduce physical symptoms like sweating and rapid heartbeat before public speaking, but they don’t address the underlying cause of anxiety, says psychiatrist Danielle Admoni. While not a new medication, the use of betablockers for anxiety control has gained traction, driven by social media reports and a competitive work environment. This trend worries Luiz Scocca, a psychiatrist at the USP Hospital, as improper use can risk serious consequences. It may become a habit, leading individuals to believe they perform better only with medication, reducing emotional autonomy.