Question:

A patient on verapamil should not be given a beta blocker as?

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Both agents depress the AV node - their additive effect is the danger.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Conduction block
  • Bronchospasm
  • Neurogenic shock
  • Anaphylaxis
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Verapamil is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with strong negative chronotropic and dromotropic effects. It slows AV nodal conduction and can accentuate conduction defects.

Step 2: Beta blockers also depress AV nodal conduction and heart rate. Combining the two produces additive suppression of the AV node and sinus node.

Step 3: This combination risks severe bradycardia, AV (conduction) block and even asystole. Verapamil should be avoided in 2nd and 3rd degree block, sick sinus syndrome and together with a beta blocker.

Step 4: Bronchospasm and anaphylaxis are not the concern with this drug pair, and neurogenic shock is unrelated. The correct answer is conduction block.
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