Antiadrenergic
Antiadrenergic
Antiadrenergic (pronunciation: an·ti·ad·re·ner·gic, /ˌæntiˌædrɪˈnɜːrdʒɪk/) refers to a type of drug that inhibits the activity of adrenergic receptors in the body. These drugs are often used in the treatment of conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and anxiety disorders.
Etymology
The term "antiadrenergic" is derived from the Greek words "anti" meaning against, and "adrenergic" referring to the adrenergic system in the body that responds to adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) and norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline).
Types of Antiadrenergic Drugs
There are two main types of antiadrenergic drugs:
- Alpha blockers: These drugs work by blocking the alpha-adrenergic receptors, which are primarily found in the blood vessels and the muscles of the heart. This results in the dilation of blood vessels and a decrease in blood pressure.
- Beta blockers: These drugs work by blocking the beta-adrenergic receptors, which are primarily found in the heart and lungs. This results in a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure.
Related Terms
- Adrenergic system: The system in the body that responds to adrenaline and norepinephrine.
- Adrenaline: A hormone and neurotransmitter that is produced in the adrenal glands and some neurons in the brain.
- Norepinephrine: A hormone and neurotransmitter that is produced in the adrenal glands and some neurons in the brain.
- Hypertension: A condition characterized by consistently high blood pressure.
- Heart failure: A condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
- Anxiety disorders: A group of mental disorders characterized by significant feelings of anxiety and fear.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antiadrenergic
- Wikipedia's article - Antiadrenergic
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