beta-blocker

noun

be·​ta-block·​er ˈbā-tə-ˌblä-kər 

: any of a class of drugs (such as propranolol) that decrease the rate and force of heart contractions and lower high blood pressure by blocking the activity of beta-receptors

beta-blocking

ˈbā-tə-ˌblä-kiŋ 

adjective

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

beta-blocker

noun

be·​ta-block·​er -ˈbläk-ər 

: any of a group of drugs (as propranolol) that combine with and block the activity of a beta-receptor to decrease the heart rate and force of contractions and lower high blood pressure and that are used especially to treat hypertension, angina pectoris, and ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias compare alpha-blocker