Final answer:
Beta-blocking drugs, also known as β-blockers, are medications used to treat cardiovascular diseases by blocking specific receptors. They help regulate heart rhythm by decreasing calcium influx and suppressing abnormal pacemakers. However, they may have side effects like impotence, asthma worsening, and masking of hypoglycemia symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beta-blocking drugs, also known as β-blockers, are a type of medication often used to treat cardiovascular diseases. They work by blocking the β-receptors associated with vasoconstriction and cardioacceleration, which leads to the dilation of blood vessels and the prevention of an increase in heart rate. By decreasing the influx of calcium ions and suppressing abnormal pacemakers, these drugs help regulate heart rhythm and are commonly used to treat conditions like ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).
However, it's important to note that the use of β-blockers may have some potential side effects. These side effects can include impotence, asthma symptoms worsening, and the masking of hypoglycemia symptoms.