Antihypertensives (Beta Blockers) - Week 2

Question 1

T/F: Beta blockers (BB) decrease renin release.

Answer 1

True.

Question 2

T/F: BB’s are potent vasodilators.

Answer 2

False. BB’s do NOT vasodilate

Question 3

Advantages of BB’s over vasodilators

Answer 3

• no reflex tachycardia
• no widening of pulse pressure
• improved MvO2 (dec HR and contractility)
• intrinsic anti arrhythmic activity

Question 4

What beta selectivity classification are Metoprolol, Atenolol, Acebutolol, Bisoprolol, and Esmolol?

Answer 4

B1 selective

- decrease velocity of AV conduction, RH, contractility, renin release, and lipolysis

Question 5

What beta selectivity classification are Propranolol, Nadolol, Timolol, Pindolol, and Carteolol?

Answer 5

Nonselective
Block B1 and B2
- B2: bronshoconstriction, peripheral vasoconstriction, decreased glycogenolysis

Question 6

What are the combined A1 and nonselective B blockers?

Answer 6

Carvedilol (Coreg) and Labetalol

Question 7

What are the 3 classes of BB’s according to elimination half-life, and by what is each group metabolized?

Answer 7

• Long-acting: glucuronide hepatic biotransformation (Atenolol)
• Intermediate-acting: rapidly hydroxylated by the liver, first pass effect (Metoprolol/Propranolol)
• Short-acting: red cell esterase’s (Esmolol)