Class II Antiarrhythmic Drugs

Question 1

Class II Antiarrhythmic Drugs

Drug Names

Answer 1

Acebutolol
Esmolol
Propranolol

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

Treatment of supraventricular tachycardia and PVCs

Question 3

Mechanism of Action

Answer 3

Beta-adrenergic blockers block beta-receptors, causing a depression of phase 4 of the action potential

Question 4

Actions

Answer 4

Competitively block beta receptor sites in the heart and kidneys
Decrease heart rate, cardiac excitability, and cardiac output
Slow conduction through the AV node

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Sinus bradycardia, AV block, cardiogenic shock, CHF, asthma, or respiration depression, pregnancy and lactation

Question 6

Adverse Effects

Answer 6

r/t effects of blocking beta receptors in the sympathetic nervous system
CNS: dizziness, insomnia, dreams and fatigue
CV: hypotension, bradycardia, AV block, arrhythmias
Respiratory: bronchospasm and dyspnea
GI: nausea, vomiting, anorexia
Misc.: loss of libido, decreased exercise tolerance, alterations in blood glucose levels

Question 7

Drug-Drug Interactions

Answer 7

Verapamil

Insulin