What is the role of beta-blockers in anxiety treatment?

• A. Used for general anxiety disorder as first-line.
• B. Used to treat cognitive aspects of anxiety.
• C. Used for performance-related or situational anxiety to attenuate autonomic symptoms.
• D. Contraindicated in anxiety disorders.

Answer: (C)

They mainly address autonomic arousal during performance- or situational anxiety. By blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, these medications blunt the body’s immediate fight-or-flight responses—lowering heart rate, reducing trembling, and dampening sweating and a tense voice. That helps someone feel steadier during a stressful moment like public speaking, a test, or an audition, so the performance isn’t overshadowed by physical symptoms. They don’t directly change worrying thoughts or the cognitive aspects of anxiety, which is why they’re not considered a general or long-term treatment for anxiety disorders. For ongoing generalized anxiety or pervasive worry, other medications or psychotherapies are typically preferred. Use is usually targeted to specific events and done with medical guidance due to potential side effects and contraindications.