Differences in the Basic Pharmacology of Beta-Blocking Agents

摘要

beta-Blockers are important in the treatment of arterial hy-pertension, coronary heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure. Their effects are mediated by the block-ade of various types of (3- and alpha-receptors, and compounds have been developed to specifically inhibitthem.Nonselective beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol, nadolol, pen-butolol and carvedilol) differ from beta-selective blockers (e.g.metoprolol, atenolol, bisoprolol and nebivolol). Selectivity is never absolute and all beta-blockers can causeproblems in allergic asthma including serious side effects and death. The clinical advantage of selectivity appears to be meager, as only few patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease seem to benefit from increased tolerability.