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
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Those medications can include antihistamines, beta-blockers, diuretics, anti-psychotics and stimulants such as ADHD medications or SSRIs. Jacqueline Howard, CNN Money, 18 June 2026 Likewise, those on certain medications, such as beta-blockers and antihypertensives, and people with certain heart or lung conditions can be at greater risk. Andrea Thompson, Scientific American, 11 June 2026 Doctors put him on beta-blockers, but his symptoms didn't improve. Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026 But collectively, the competitors were on some combination of 37 substances, including Adderall, beta-blockers, human growth hormone, and five forms of testosterone. Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 25 May 2026 In addition, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to help lower blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, or other options. Ashley Olivine, Verywell Health, 14 May 2026 The beta-blocker was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 1967 for the treatment of heart problems including high blood pressure, arrhythmia (irregular heart rate) and angina. The Week Uk, TheWeek, 22 Apr. 2026 Research shows that beta-blockers and diuretics don’t work as well when caffeine enters the mix.4 Maron recommends limiting caffeine intake to less than 400 milligrams (mg) per day, roughly the amount in three cups of coffee. Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 4 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Beta-blocker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta-blocker. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

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

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