The NHS has issued a warning to thousands of Brits taking a certain type of medication, advising them to reduce their intake of coffee, tea, and alcohol to avoid unpleasant side effects. This caution is primarily directed at those prescribed a common type of medication known as beta blockers.

       According to the British Heart Foundation, a significant number of UK residents are on this medication, which is typically given to individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure. A recent statement on its website revealed: "In 2021 alone, more than 40,000 prescriptions were issued in England."

       Beta blockers, also known as beta adrenergic blocking agents, work by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force of blood flow throughout the body. They achieve this by blocking the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, which usually cause the heart to beat faster and harder.

       However, for those over 80 years old, the normal heart rate and blood pressure are higher at 150/90 mmHg (or 145/85 mmHg when measured at home), due to the stiffening of arteries with age.

       High blood pressure, or hypertension, carries significant risks as it can damage your heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes, potentially leading to serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.

       Beta blockers are primarily used to treat various heart and circulatory conditions, including irregular heartbeats, angina, and high blood pressure, reports Surrey Live.

       People with certain heart conditions, such as heart valve issues, heart failure, or those who've had a heart attack, might be prescribed beta blockers by their doctors. On occasion, beta blockers are also given for non-heart related conditions like anxiety. Common beta blockers include:

       One notable common beta blocker includes verapamil, for which the NHS has issued specific advice. The health service is cautioning individuals taking verapamil to moderate their caffeine consumption to avoid an adverse effect known as flushing.

       Flushing manifests as a sudden reddening of the skin, typically on the face, neck, and chest, as a result of increased blood circulation in these areas, often accompanied by warmth. It can be triggered by various factors including emotions such as embarrassment, exposure to heat, the consumption of alcohol, or certain medical conditions like carcinoid syndrome.

       The NHS website advises: "Flushing – try cutting down on coffee, tea and alcohol. It might help to keep the room cool and use a fan. You could also spray your face with cool water or sip cold or iced drinks. The flushing should go away after a few days. If it does not go away or it's causing you problems, contact your doctor.

       "You can usually drink alcohol with verapamil. However, it's best to not drink alcohol for the first few days when you start taking verapamil or if your doctor increases your dose. Wait until you know how the medicine affects you. This is because drinking alcohol can increase the effects of verapamil. It can make your blood pressure too low and you may feel dizzy or lightheaded.

       "Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking verapamil. This is because grapefruit can make the side effects of verapamil worse. Otherwise, you can eat and drink normally while taking verapamil. Eating a healthy balanced diet can help if you have high blood pressure."

       Harvard Health experts advise: "Drinking coffee at the same time you take certain blood pressure medications, including the calcium-channel blocker verapamil (Verelan), can temporarily hamper their ability to relax blood vessels."

       High blood pressure often goes unnoticed because it typically doesn't present any symptoms. Many individuals may have it without even knowing. In rare cases, it can lead to symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, or chest pain. The best way to determine if you have high blood pressure is to have it measured by a healthcare professional.

       Verapamil is a medication that aids in lowering blood pressure and improving the heart's efficiency in pumping blood throughout the body. It is frequently prescribed to manage chest pain linked to angina and to control irregular heart rhythms.

       It is effective in treating high blood pressure (hypertension). For those suffering from hypertension, taking verapamil can help lower the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

       Verapamil, a prescription medication, is often recommended by doctors for individuals suffering from cluster headaches to help reduce their frequency. It can be found in tablet form or as a liquid to swallow, and occasionally, it may be administered via injection, typically in a hospital setting.

       The effects of verapamil begin on the day you start using it, but it might take about one to two weeks to experience its full benefits. Constipation is one of the most frequently reported side effects of this drug.

       It's important to avoid consuming grapefruit or its juice while on verapamil, as it can intensify side effects. Unless advised by your doctor, it's crucial to continue taking verapamil. Abruptly stopping the medication could lead to an increase in blood pressure, which may heighten your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

       Common side effects happen in more than one in 100 people. They are usually mild and do not last long. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away:

       Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than one in 10,000 people. Stop taking verapamil and tell your doctor straight away if:

       If you experience serious side effects, stop taking verapamil and inform your doctor immediately. As for beta blockers, they are not suitable for everyone.

       Beta blockers are not suitable for everyone. Inform your doctor if you have certain conditions, such as:

       If you're planning a pregnancy, are currently expecting or breastfeeding, it's vital to inform your doctor. It's also crucial not to stop taking beta blockers without consulting your GP, as this could potentially exacerbate your health condition.

       The NHS has warned that certain medications may interfere with the effectiveness of beta blockers, including those in eyedrop form. If you're taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements, make sure to inform your doctor or pharmacist.

       You should consult your GP if you're taking: