Final answer:
Among the beta blockers listed, Metoprolol is the one considered cardioselective because it specifically blocks the beta-1 receptors in the heart without significantly affecting the beta-2 receptors in the lungs and other tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking about the cardioselectivity of certain beta blockers. Beta blockers are a class of drugs that are used to treat cardiovascular conditions by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart. The specific question is which of the provided beta blockers is considered cardioselective. In this context, cardioselectivity refers to the drug's preferential action on beta-1 receptors in the heart, without significantly affecting beta-2 receptors, which are primarily found in the lungs and other tissues.
Among the options given, d. Metoprolol is the beta blocker that is considered cardioselective. It specifically blocks the beta-1 receptors in the heart. In contrast, a. Propranolol is a non-selective beta blocker, which means it blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors. b. Carvedilol (Coreg) also has non-selective beta-blocking activity but also has alpha-blocking activity. c. Nadolol is also a non-selective beta blocker. Cardioselective beta blockers like Metoprolol are often chosen when treating patients with respiratory diseases such as asthma, as they are less likely to cause constriction of the airways.