Which beta blocker is indicated as useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders?

Propranolol is particularly useful in treating anxiety disorders due to its ability to modulate the physiological symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate, trembling, and sweating. It is a non-selective beta-blocker that works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which can help reduce the physical manifestations of anxiety.

This makes propranolol especially effective in situations where anxiety is triggered by performance or public speaking, as it can alleviate the sympathetic nervous system's response to stress. This role of propranolol in managing acute anxiety symptoms has been supported by research highlighting its efficacy in situational anxiety, such as performance anxiety.

Other beta blockers like atenolol, metoprolol, and pindolol may also be used in various cardiovascular conditions, but they do not have the same level of evidence or widespread clinical use in anxiety management as propranolol.