Beta-blockers

A class of drugs that inhibits the action of beta-adrenergic receptors, which modulate cardiac functions, respiratory functions, and the dilation and constriction of blood vessels. Beta-blockers are of value in the treatment of hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, and migraine. In psychiatry, they have been used in the treatment of aggression and violence, anxiety-related tremors and lithium-induced tremors, medication-induced akathisia, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic states, and alcohol withdrawal. The medication propranolol (inderal) is an example of a beta-blocker.

A drug that lowers blood pressure mainly by blocking beta receptors on the heart, which slows the heart rate, and in the kidneys, thereby preventing release of renin from the kidneys and inhibiting their production of a substance (angiotensin) that constricts arterioles.

Drugs that prevent overactivity of the heart which results in angina pectoris.

Any of a group of drugs (e.g., propranolol, naldolol, atenolol, metoprolol) widely used in the treatment of some forms of hypertension and arrhythmia. The drugs decrease the rate and force of heart contraction by blocking the beta-adrenergic receptors of the sympathetic nervous system.

Antihypertensive drugs. Beta blockers are very effective drugs that lower blood pressure by blocking the effects of norepinephrine, thereby easing the heart’s pumping action and indirectly widening blood vessels. Current research demonstrates that beta blockers reduce the risk for heart attacks and other cardiovascular events. Beta blockers are inexpensive, safe, and effective for most people with hypertension and no complicating health problems. Beta blockers should be used with caution by people with asthma because they can narrow bronchial airways. Beta blockers can also be useful for people with angina to slow heart rates; they can also be used as eyedrops for glaucoma. Examples of beta blockers include acebutolol, atenolol, betaxolol, carteolol, carvedilol, metoprolol, nadolol, penbutolol, pindolol, and propranolol. Beta blockers may differ in their effects as well as in their side effects; some can cause an impaired ability to drive.

A drug that prevents stimulation of the beta-adrenergic receptors of nerves of the sympathetic nervous system and therefore decreases the activity of the heart. Beta blockers include oxprenolol and propranolol, which are used to control abnormal heart rhythms, to treat angina, and to reduce high blood pressure. Blockade of beta receptors may cause constriction of air passages in the lungs and care has to be taken with the use of beta blockers in patients with any bronchial conditions.

A substance that impedes the pace and vigor of cardiac compressions by blocking the activation of beta-adrenergic receptors.