Are beta blockers contraindicated in the presence of hypertension and asthma?

Beta blockers are generally contraindicated in patients with asthma due to their potential to induce bronchospasm. This occurs because non-selective beta blockers can block beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which are responsible for bronchial dilation. In patients with hypertension who also have asthma, using non-selective beta blockers could exacerbate respiratory symptoms and lead to complications.

In the context of hypertension management, some beta blockers are cardioselective and primarily target beta-1 adrenergic receptors, which are more focused on the heart and may be better tolerated in asthmatic patients. However, even in these cases, caution is advised, and careful consideration of the patient's overall health status is crucial.

Therefore, in general practice, beta blockers are contraindicated for patients with asthma unless a cardioselective beta blocker is chosen and the benefits outweigh the risks. This makes the assertion that beta blockers are contraindicated in the presence of hypertension and asthma the correct answer.