Which of the following are common side effects of beta-blockers?

Beta-blockers are commonly used to manage conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and anxiety. The correct response identifies bradycardia (a slower than normal heart rate), hypotension (lowering of blood pressure), and fatigue as typical side effects associated with this class of medication.

Bradycardia occurs because beta-blockers work by blocking the beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to a decreased heart rate. Hypotension can also result from this action since lowering heart rate and contractility can reduce overall cardiac output, contributing to lower blood pressure. Fatigue is another frequent side effect as the body may respond to the decreased heart rate and blood pressure with a sense of lethargy or tiredness.

This profile of side effects is consistent with the pharmacologic mechanism of beta-blockers, making option B the most accurate representation of the common adverse effects experienced by patients taking these medications.