Published on May 05, 2025 | 10:10 AM
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If you've ever felt your heart race, hands shake, or body sweat during a high-pressure moment—like giving a speech or walking into a big interview—you’re not alone. These physical symptoms are part of the body's natural stress response, but for some people, they can feel overwhelming and hard to manage.
You might have even heard of celebrities or performers using beta blockers like propranolol before a red carpet appearance or high-stakes performance to stay calm and composed. While beta blockers are traditionally prescribed for medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart issues, some people are exploring their occasional use for performance or situational anxiety.
It’s important to know that using beta blockers for anxiety is considered off-label, meaning it’s not officially approved by the FDA for that purpose. However, some studies suggest beta blockers may be helpful in short-term situations by slowing the heart rate and easing physical symptoms—without dulling focus or performance.¹
Below, we’ll explore the concept of beta blockers and anxiety, including what they are, who should take them, and how you can get a prescription.
Beta blockers, also sometimes called β-blockers, adrenaline blockers, or more formally, beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are medications that reduce the effects of adrenaline in the body. When adrenaline spikes, it can cause a number of stress-related physical symptoms—like a rapid heartbeat and trembling.
By blocking certain receptors, beta blockers slow the heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and calm the body's physical response to anxiety. They are most commonly prescribed for chronic conditions such as:
While generally well-tolerated some beta blocker medications carry potential side effects. The side effects of propranolol for anxiety, for example, include fatigue, lightheadedness, trouble sleeping, and more.
However, not all beta blockers are the same. Some are better suited for short-term or occasional use—particularly propranolol, which is often discussed in the context of performance anxiety.²,³
Some people turn to performance anxiety medication on an as-needed basis—either as a one-time option or for occasional use during high-stress situations—to help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. Taking beta blockers for anxiety that occurs situationally typically means taking a low dose shortly before an event to reduce issues like a racing heart, shaky hands, or excessive sweating.
This approach isn’t designed for everyday anxiety, but rather for those who feel physically overwhelmed in specific moments of pressure and want short-term, situational relief. The goal of taking beta blockers for public speaking, for example, is not to eliminate the nervousness of speaking in front of an audience altogether, but to ease the visible physical reactions that can interfere with performance and confidence.²
Even when taken just once or occasionally, beta blockers are still prescription medications and can carry risks depending on your health status or what other medications you take. They’re not appropriate for everyone—and even single-use scenarios should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Situational or one-time use may not be a good fit for people who:
Even though it may be tempting to borrow a friend’s prescription for a one-time event, beta blockers can have serious consequences if taken incorrectly. A healthcare provider can assess whether the benefits outweigh the risks in your individual case—and may also suggest safer or more suitable alternatives such as relaxation techniques, therapy, herbal supplements, or other fast-acting anxiety relief options.²
People who don’t typically struggle with chronic anxiety but experience intense physical symptoms during specific high-pressure moments may consider talking to a doctor about occasional beta blocker use.
The goal in these cases isn’t to eliminate nerves entirely, but to help reduce the physical reactions—like shaking, a racing heart, or sweating—that can make it harder to perform or stay confident.
Situations where someone might consider this type of one-time or occasional use include:
These events often come with a surge of adrenaline. For some people, calming the physical symptoms can help them stay more grounded and focused in the moment. A healthcare provider can help you determine whether beta blockers for stage fright, performances, and other temporarily anxiety-inducing situations are a safe and appropriate option for you.²
If you’re thinking about using a beta blocker occasionally for things like public speaking or test-taking, the process starts with speaking to a healthcare provider. Because beta blockers like propranolol are prescription medications, you’ll need a professional evaluation to determine if they’re safe and appropriate for your needs.
Here’s how to go about it:
1. Schedule an Appointment with a Healthcare Provider
Reach out to a licensed healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. Let them know you’re looking for support with occasional, situation-specific anxiety.
2. Describe the Situations That Trigger Your Symptoms
Be clear about when you experience anxiety—such as during public speaking, interviews, or performances—and why you’re seeking short-term relief.
3. Explain the Physical Symptoms You Experience
Mention specific symptoms like shaky hands, a racing heart, or sweating. Beta blockers target physical symptoms, so this information helps guide the conversation.
4. Share Your Medical History and Current Medications
Your provider needs to know about any pre-existing conditions (like asthma or low blood pressure) and medications you’re taking to assess safety and avoid interactions.
5. Discuss Whether a Beta Blocker Is the Right Fit
If your provider thinks a beta blocker might help, they may prescribe a low dose to take before high-stress events. In some cases, they might suggest a trial dose under supervision to monitor for side effects.
6. Follow All Medical Guidance and Instructions
Only take the medication as prescribed, and never use someone else’s prescription—even for one-time use. Your doctor will provide specific dosage and timing instructions tailored to you.
Yes, beta blockers can help reduce the physical symptoms of performance anxiety—such as shaking, rapid heartbeat, and sweating—when taken before a stressful event.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but beta blockers like propranolol are commonly used for physical symptoms, while other options may include fast-acting anti-anxiety medications or natural remedies depending on individual needs.
Propranolol typically starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. That’s why it’s often taken shortly before a public speaking event, audition, or other high-pressure situation.³
For most people, a single dose of immediate-release propranolol lasts about 4 to 6 hours. However, its effects—especially for anxiety—can be felt for up to 12 hours depending on the dose and individual response. Extended-release versions are designed to last up to 24 hours.³
If you’re considering beta blockers for occasional or one-time use, Call-On-Doc offers a fast, secure way to get an online beta blocker prescription. There’s no need to schedule an appointment or wait in a clinic—just complete a short medical questionnaire, get evaluated by a licensed provider, and if appropriate, receive a prescription tailored to your needs.
Call-On-Doc makes it easy to manage situational anxiety with trusted care that fits your schedule. Start your online visit today and see if a beta blocker is right for you at Call-On-Doc.
Sources:
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides.
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