Final answer:
Beta-blockers are medications that slow heart rate by blocking the action of neurotransmitters on beta-1 receptors in the heart, which reduces heart rate and is used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. Overprescribing can lead to bradycardia or heart stoppage. Metoprolol and propranolol are common examples of β-blockers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beta-blockers, also known as β-blockers, are a class of medications that have a significant effect on heart rate (HR). They work by blocking the action of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine (NE) and adrenaline on β-receptors, specifically beta-1 receptors, which are primarily found in the heart. When these receptors are blocked, the result is a slowing of the HR, which is why β-blockers are commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure).
Adrenaline, a hormone and neurotransmitter, has a stimulatory effect on heart rate and blood pressure. However, β-blockers are antagonistic to this action and produce an inhibitory effect, leading to a decrease in HR. These effects can be beneficial in managing cardiovascular diseases; they can lead to improved cardiac function by preventing excessive vasoconstriction and avoiding tachycardia (an abnormally high HR).
It is, however, important to monitor the use of β-blockers because overprescribing can cause bradycardia (an abnormally slow heart rate) and potentially life-threatening heart stoppage. Some of the common β-blockers include metoprolol, which specifically blocks the β1-receptor, and propranolol, which blocks β-receptors more generally. While they are effective, patient response to β-blockers should be closely observed and dosages carefully managed.