Hi @heffert,

I think most of us would do without meds if given the option – but sometimes they are necessary. I can most certainly see how the emphasis on diet and exercise, and the societal push to "do things naturally,” can convince us about alternatives or not following the doctor’s recommendations – this is especially true for drugs that treat ‘silent’ or asymptomatic conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease.

Here are a few facts about heart disease:
– Heart disease kills 1 in every 4 people in the United States.
– Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.
– It is also one of the most preventable.
– Some of the most commonly prescribed medications for heart problems are beta blockers.
https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_heart_disease.htm
...and what you should know about beta blockers:
When the heart's arteries become narrowed or weak, the heart compensates by pumping harder and faster. This increases the demand for oxygen and can cause angina, which is chest pain, as well as as high blood pressure or arrhythmia, which is an irregular heartbeat.
Beta blockers slow down the heart to give it a break from working so hard. The heart's squeezing function relaxes a bit, which causes blood pressure to go down, easing pain and helping regulate the heartbeat. Beta blockers also help open up your veins and arteries to improve blood flow. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/beta-blockers/art-20044522

...and detailed information about ventricular tachycardia:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ventricular-tachycardia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355138
I also thought you might wish to view this very interesting article, "Is Any Patient with Chronic Heart Failure Receiving the Right Dose of the Right Beta-Blocker in Primary Care?" https://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-9343(19)30311-0/fulltext

@heffert, just as “silent” conditions have no overt symptoms, initially, the consequences of not taking medication may not show up immediately. But by putting your health at risk there can be serious long-term consequences.
Taking medication, as directed by your doctor, is a decision only you can make. Can you talk to your doctor and explain your concerns?