Adrenergic beta-antagonist
Adrenergic beta-receptor blockaders (beta-blockers) are "drugs that bind to but do not activate beta-adrenergic receptors thereby blocking the actions of beta-adrenergic agonists. Adrenergic beta-antagonists are used for treatment of hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, angina pectoris, glaucoma, migraine headaches, and anxiety".[1]
Beta-blockers vary within the class regarding their properties. Beta-blockers that have low intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA), low membrane stabilizing activity, high beta 1-selectivity, and high lipophilicity may be more effective.[2] A meta-analysis has concluded that metoprolol may be the best beta-blocker for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction.[2]
Availability
Generically available beta-blockers include:[3][4]
- Betaxolol
- Bisoprolol
- Nadolol
- Propranolol
- Timolol
Generic beta-blockers with beta 1-selectivity:[2]
- Atenolol (less lipid soluble; renally excreted)
- Metoprolol (hepatically metabolized by cytochrome P-450)
Generic beta-blockers with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (less resting bradycardia and lipid changes):[3]
- Acebutolol
- Pindolol
Generic beta-blockers with alpha blocking activity (more orthostatic hypotension):[3]
- Carvedilol
- Labetalol
References
- ↑ Anonymous (2024), Adrenergic beta-antagonist (English). Medical Subject Headings. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Soriano JB, Hoes AW, Meems L, Grobbee DE (1997). "Increased survival with beta-blockers: importance of ancillary properties". Prog Cardiovasc Dis 39 (5): 445–56. PMID 9122425. [e]
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 (June 2005) "Drugs for hypertension". Treat Guidel Med Lett 3 (34): 39–48. PMID 15912125. [e]
- ↑ (March 2008) "Nebivolol (Bystolic) for hypertension". Med Lett Drugs Ther 50 (1281): 17–9. PMID 18323772. [e]