beta-blocker

noun

be·​ta-block·​er ˈbā-tə-ˌblä-kər How to pronounce beta-blocker (audio)
: 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 adjective

Examples of beta-blocker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Certain medications—such as some antidepressants and ADHD medications—can raise your heart rate too, while others, such as beta-blockers, lower it. Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 6 Apr. 2024 In another 2003 study of beta-blockers for cardiac disease and hypertension, telling patients that treatment side effects might include erectile dysfunction (ED) led to a doubling of patients reporting this problem compared with those not given information about ED risk. TIME, 4 Apr. 2024 This list includes beta-blockers such as propranolol, anticonvulsants such as (topiramate) and Depakote (divalproex), and antidepressants such as amitriptyline and Effexor (venlafaxine). Syeda Khaula Saad, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2024 According to Mayo Clinic, beta-blockers are commonly used to reduce blood pressure and regulate heart rhythm. Leora Arnowitz, USA TODAY, 8 Jan. 2024 Antihypertensives: Prescription medications that reduce elevated blood pressure include angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics. Kelly Wood, Verywell Health, 16 Feb. 2024 Children and newborns should also not take it, and people on any prescription medications—particularly those on beta-blockers, antidepressants, and immunosuppressants—should consult with a doctor before adding berberine into their system. Ned Doyle, Robb Report, 19 July 2023 However, research suggests beta-blockers do not always achieve this goal. Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 23 June 2023 Talinolol is a beta-blocker, or a type of drug that treats heart disease.20 Where To Find Turmeric is native to Southeast Asia. Cynthia Sass, Mph, Rd, Health, 2 June 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'beta-blocker.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beta-blocker was in 1965

Dictionary Entries Near beta-blocker

Cite this Entry

“Beta-blocker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta-blocker. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

beta-blocker

noun
be·​ta-block·​er -ˈbläk-ər How to pronounce beta-blocker (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on beta-blocker

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