A patient with hypertension and asthma is taking propranolol (Inderal), a non-selective beta blocker. Which of the following side effects is the patient most at risk for?

Explanation

•As a non-selective beta blocker, propranolol inhibits beta-2 receptors in the lungs, leading to bronchospasm and bronchoconstriction. Asthma places the patient at an increased risk for bronchspasms and constriction.

•Hypoglycemia, alopecia, and insomnia are all side effects associated with beta blockers, but this patient is not at an increased risk.

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