Nonselective beta blockers are contraindicated in which condition?

• A. Asthma
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hyperlipidemia
• D. Diabetes mellitus

Answer: (A)

Nonselective beta blockers block both beta-1 receptors in the heart and beta-2 receptors in bronchial smooth muscle. In asthma, blocking beta-2 receptors prevents bronchodilation, promoting bronchoconstriction and potentially triggering a bronchospasm or worsening Airway hyperreactivity. That risk makes them contraindicated in asthma. The other conditions listed do not inherently involve bronchial constriction from beta-2 blockade, though in practice one might choose cardioselective beta-1 blockers or alternative therapies if a patient has asthma or COPD.