Final answer:
Atenolol and metoprolol are ß-blockers used to treat cardiovascular diseases by blocking ß-receptors, which helps to dilate blood vessels and prevent increased heart rates, improving cardiac function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atenolol and metoprolol are types of ß-blockers, which are a category of drugs known as sympatholytic. These medications are commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases because they block the ß-receptors related to vasoconstriction and cardioacceleration. By doing so, they enable blood vessels to dilate and prevent increases in heart rate, thus potentially improving cardiac function in patients with conditions like congestive heart failure or post-heart attack scenarios. Metoprolol specifically targets the B1-receptor and is often selected for its specific action on heart tissue while minimizing effects on other parts of the bodyOverprescription of ß-blockers can sometimes lead to adverse effects such as bradycardia or even complete cessation of the heart, emphasizing the importance of careful dosage and monitoring