Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers
Beta-blocker medicines slow the heart rate and decrease how forcefully the heart contracts. This reduces the amount of oxygen the heart needs to work. Beta-blockers are often used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain, and heart failure.
Examples of beta-blocking medicines include:
- Atenolol (Tenormin).
- Propranolol hydrochloride (such as Inderal).
- Esmolol hydrochloride (Brevibloc).
- Metoprolol (such as Lopressor or Toprol XL).
- Acebutolol (Sectral).
- Carteolol (such as Cartrol).
- Penbutolol sulfate (Levatol).
- Pindolol (Visken).
Credits
| Author | Monica Rhodes |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Denele Ivins |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Stephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC - Interventional Cardiology |
| Last Updated | December 18, 2006 |
| Last updated: | December 18, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Monica Rhodes |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Stephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC - Interventional Cardiology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.




