Q&A: Is it unethical to take a beta blocker before a performance?
Question by Rob: Is it unethical to take a beta blocker before a performance?
As a singer, I have always dealt with performance anxiety at performances/auditions. The physical manifestations of the anxiety sometimes affect my voice (shortness of breath, tightness, tremors).
I have recently been given a perscrption for beta blockers (propanolol 10mg) I understand that this will help with the physical symptoms. I feel a bit guitly about this however, that it might give me an unfair advantage, especially at an audition, in that everybody else has to deal with the same anxiety. Is it like steroids or blood doping, or is it simply dealing with a condition. If a was offered a performing contract as a result of an audition done under a beta blocker, would I be doing it under false pretenses?
Have tried other stress reliever, i.e Yoga, deep breathing.
Best answer:
Answer by Kate M
No! I wish that I had known about them in high school when I performed music. I only recently learned about the effects of beta blockers and am actually going to get a Rx for them soon for presentations I have to give for school. Do not feel guilty. People are different and respond differently to stress. Some people’s bodies produce lower levels of stress hormones or their bodies are better able to manage the stress. Taking this drug will just get you to a normal level of stress. It is not cheating because it does not improve your voice or you talent.
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