Once beta-blockers bind to the B1 and B2 receptors, they inhibit these effects. Some beta-blockers also bind to alpha receptors to some degree, allowing them to induce a different clinical outcome when used in specific settings. In contrast, binding to B2 receptors causes relaxation of the smooth muscles along with increased metabolic effects such as glycogenolysis.īeta-blockers vary in their specificity towards different receptors, and accordingly, the effects produced depend on the type of receptor(s) blocked as well as the organ system involved. B1 receptors also induce renin release, and this leads to an increase in blood pressure. The catecholamines, epinephrine, and norepinephrine bind to B1 receptors and increase cardiac automaticity as well as conduction velocity. It may also play a role in refractory ventricular tachycardia, which is also known as electrical storm. It is generally used for refractory tachycardia, such as atrial fibrillation, and is titrable given its short onset of action and short half-life. A common example is esmolol, which is typically used either in the intensive care unit or a cardiac inpatient unit. Ĭertain beta blockers are also used specifically in inpatient units rather than for outpatient prescriptions. An example of a beta blocker that is commonly prescribed for anxiety or stage fright is propranolol it may reduce some peripheral symptoms of anxiety, such as tachycardia, sweating, and general tension. Combined with a reduction in tremors, they may lead to improved stage performance. They are not FDA approved for the treatment of anxiety-related disorders however, they have a potent anxiolytic effect. Metoprolol tartrate is not indicated for heart failure and is instead used for other conditions such as atrial fibrillation.Īthletes and musicians may use beta-blockers for their anxiolytic effect as well as their inhibitory effects on the sympathetic nervous system. Specifically, the beta-blockers bisoprolol, carvedilol, and metoprolol succinate are the agents chosen. Beta-blockers are available for administration in three primary forms: oral, intravenous, and ophthalmic, and the route of administration often depends on the acuity of the illness (parenteral use in arrhythmias), disease type (topical use in glaucoma), and chronicity of the disease.Ĭongestive heart failure patients are treated with beta-blockers if they are in a compensated state.

They are also used to treat less common conditions such as long QT syndrome and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Beta-blockers, as a class of medications, are essential drugs and are first-line treatments in many acute and chronic conditions.īeta-blockers are indicated and have FDA approval for the treatment of tachycardia, hypertension, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, essential tremor, aortic dissection, portal hypertension, glaucoma, migraine prophylaxis, and other conditions.

Blockade of these receptors by beta-blocking medicines is used to treat a broad range of illnesses. Beta-3 receptors induce the breakdown of fat cells and are less clinically relevant at present. Beta-2 receptors, with their diverse location in many organ systems, control various aspects of metabolic activity and induce smooth muscle relaxation. Beta-1 receptors located primarily in the heart mediate cardiac activity. īeta receptors exist in three distinct forms: beta-1 (B1), beta-2 (B2), and beta-3 (B3). Beta-blockers, as a class of drugs, are primarily used to treat cardiovascular diseases and other conditions.

Beta blockers ok to take as needed