Can Metoprolol Be Taken For Atrial Fibrillation While Having RBBB?

Posted on Fri, 20 May 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 20 May 2016 Answered on

Mon, 27 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have right bundle branch block. Just presented Monday with Afib. Doctor put me on 12.5 of metoprolol twice a day. I have read several articles that someone with a heart block should not take a beta blocker. I have a follow up on Monday. Is a beta blocker safe to take with RBBB?

Answered by Dr. Priyank Mody (53 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
YES , beta blocker is safe with RBBB

Detailed Answer:
Hello ,
Yes you can safely take beta blocker for atrial fibrillation even if you have right bundle branch block , rather beta blocker is the safest and 1st choice of drug in such a condition.

Now what you have read on Internet was about AV block , which are commonly addressed as heart block , and which stands for is 'atrio ventricular blocks' the condition where beta blockers should be avoided. However in bundle branch block ( a different type of block ) which you have would not be a problem with beta blocker therapy .

More scientific explanation would add to your confusion so I would rather stop here .

Hoping I could help .
Let me know if any clarification needed and I would be happy to clarify.
Do rate for others reference.

Regards
Dr Priyank Mody

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee