Beta blockers

Question 1

Beta blockers

Mechanism of action

Answer 1

Reduce force of contraction and speed of conduction in the heart. Reduce renin secretion from the kidneys to lower blood pressure.

Question 2

Water Soluble Beta blockers

drugs and advantage

Answer 2

Water CANS
Celiprolol
Atenolol
Nadolol
Sotalol

More water soluble cannot cross the BBB so less likely to cause sleep disturbances and nightmares.

Question 3

Intrinsic Sympathomimetic Agonists

drugs and advantage

Answer 3

OPAC
Oxprenolol
Pindolol
Acebutolol
Celiprolol

ISA BBs less likely to cause bradycardia and coldness of extremities.

Question 4

Beta blocker

Indications

Answer 4

Hypertension in pregnancy and young people
Stable heart failure
Treat ACS
AF

Question 5

Beta blockers

Contraindications

Answer 5

Unstable heart failure
Asthma - can trigger bronchospasm due to B2 stimulation. Select cardioselective beta blocker
Bradycardia
Haemodynamic instability
Heart block

Question 6

Beta blockers

Cardioselective

Answer 6

NebAMABs
Acebutolol
Metoprolol
Atenolol
Bisoprolol
Nebivolol

Question 7

Beta blockers

Interaction

Answer 7

Calcium channel blockers- can precipitate heart failure
specifically Verapamil & Diltiazem- can cause asystole, HF or bradycardia
Thiazide-like diuretic- can precipitate metabolic dysfunction and increase risk of diabetes

Question 8

Beta blocker

Longer duration of action

Answer 8

ABCNad
Atenolol
Bisoprolol
Celiprolol
Nadolol

All once daily dosing