A common side effect of beta blockers is:

A) Cough: Cough is more commonly associated with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as enalapril or lisinopril, rather than with beta blockers. ACE inhibitors can cause a persistent dry cough due to the accumulation of bradykinin. Beta blockers do not generally have a direct effect on causing cough, so this is not a typical side effect of beta blockers. B) Hypotension: Hypotension (low blood pressure) is a common and well-documented side effect of beta blockers. Beta blockers, such as metoprolol, atenolol, and propranolol, work by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to a reduction in heart rate and the force of heart contractions, which can lower blood pressure. In patients with already low blood pressure or those receiving other antihypertensive medications, this effect may be more pronounced and could lead to symptomatic hypotension, such as dizziness or lightheadedness. C) Anxiety: Anxiety is not a common side effect of beta blockers. In fact, beta blockers are sometimes prescribed to manage symptoms of anxiety, particularly for physical symptoms like palpitations and tremors. However, anxiety may worsen in some individuals due to other factors, such as the psychological impact of dealing with heart disease, but this is not a typical side effect of beta blockers. D) Elevated heart rate: Beta blockers work to decrease heart rate by blocking the effects of adrenaline (epinephrine) on beta-adrenergic receptors. This leads to a slower heart rate and reduced workload on the heart. Therefore, elevated heart rate is not a common side effect of beta blockers. In fact, if the heart rate becomes too low (bradycardia), this can be a concerning side effect, but it is the opposite of an elevated heart rate.