Beta-blockers

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Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are a class of drugs that are predominantly used to manage abnormal heart rhythms, and to protect the heart from a second heart attack (myocardial infarction) after a first heart attack (secondary prevention). They are also widely used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), although they are no longer the first choice for initial treatment of high blood pressure.

Pronunciation

Beta-blockers: /ˈbiːtə blɒkər/

Etymology

The term "beta-blocker" is derived from the class of receptors they inhibit, known as beta receptors. "Beta" is the second letter of the Greek alphabet, and in this context, refers to the second class of adrenergic receptors (beta-adrenergic receptors). "Blocker" refers to the mechanism of action of these drugs, which is to block the action of adrenaline and noradrenaline on these receptors.

Related Terms

  • Adrenergic receptor: A class of G protein-coupled receptors that are targets of many catecholamines like norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and epinephrine (adrenaline) produced by the body, but also many medications.
  • Hypertension: Also known as high blood pressure, it is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated.
  • Myocardial infarction: Commonly known as a heart attack, it occurs when blood flow decreases or stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle.
  • Adrenaline: Also known as epinephrine, it is a hormone and medication which is produced by the adrenal glands that can be used to treat a number of conditions including: cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis, and superficial bleeding.
  • Noradrenaline: Also known as norepinephrine, it is a hormone and brain neurotransmitter involved in the body's response to stress and panic. It is also used as a medication to increase blood pressure in certain cases.

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