beta blocker

or beta-blocker

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. any of various substances that interfere with the action of the beta receptors: used primarily to reduce the heart rate or force in the prevention, management, or treatment of angina, hypertension, or arrythmias.

beta-blocker

noun

1. any of a class of drugs, such as propranolol, that inhibit the activity of the nerves that are stimulated by adrenaline; they therefore decrease the contraction and speed of the heart: used in the treatment of high blood pressure and angina pectoris

beta-blocker

/ bā′tə-blŏk′ər /

1. A drug that blocks the excitatory effects of epinephrine on the cardiovascular system by binding to cell-surface receptors (called beta-receptors). Beta-blockers are used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and certain abnormal heart rhythms.

Other Words From

• beta-blocking adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of beta blocker¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Today, when patients are discharged from hospitals after an acute heart attack, they are regularly treated with beta-blocker drugs such as metoprolol and bisoprolol.

From Science Daily

The reasons behind the current practice of giving everyone a beta-blocker after a heart attack can be traced back to the 1980s when studies showed unequivocally that it was beneficial.

From Science Daily

Winning an early award for best supporting actor, Downey Jr. told the crowd he had taken a beta-blocker, so “this is going to be a breeze.”

From Seattle Times

Since 2007, over 20 million patients with cardiovascular conditions have enjoyed generic versions of the popular beta-blocker, which cost 2 cents a dose compared with $4.81 for the brand-name product.

From Los Angeles Times

My morning beta-blocker pill and my nightly statin became just a part of my daily routine, more like brushing my teeth than an artifact of the temporary platelet pileup in my heart.

From Washington Post