Selection And Uses Of Beta Blockers In Clinical Practice. A Synopsis

Abstract

Based on the relative potency of a series of sympathomimetic amines Ahiquist in. 1948 conc luded that there were two distinct types of adrenergic receptors. lie classified them as alpha and beta receptors. The latter have subsequently been further divided into beta 1 and beta 2. The distribution of these receptors and their activities is shown in table 1.

Clinical Uses:
1. Hypertension: All beta blockers., whate ver their ancillary properties, are effective in reducing blood pressure in hypertension. No significant differences have yet been demonstrated in the antihypertenive effects of different beta blockers in individually adjusted optimal doses. The choice of beta blocker therefore should be based on its known or anticipated side effects, which vary from one preparation to another.

5. Special circumstances: a) hyperthvro— idism; beta blockers provide an efficacious mechanism to control the tachycardia or hypert hyroidism prior to and also in conjunction with antithyroid drugs. (b) LEISS as indicated earlier, these beta blockers not only by decreasing the contractility lower the outflow gradient but also help control the ventricular tachyarrhythmias.

Acknowledgement:
The author gratefully acknowledges the secretarial assistance of Linda Crincoli.