A reality TV star’s claim that a beta blocker drug dulled their emotions and made them appear calm on camera has sparked a wave of social media commentary.

These medicines, first developed to manage high blood pressure, are now also used to treat anxiety. But beta blockers are not “chill pills” in the way many people assume.

So what are beta blockers and how can they help manage anxiety?

They counter the effects of adrenaline

Beta blockers are a group of medications that reduce the effects of adrenaline in the body. Adrenaline is one of the hormones released as part of the body’s natural “fight-or-flight” response, which prepares us to react to danger, stress or excitement.

By blocking the effects of adrenaline, beta blockers can slow the heart rate and reduce physical symptoms such as a trembling and sweating.

They are most........

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