Alpha-Beta Blockers
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Overview
Alpha-beta blockers are a class of medications that block both alpha-1 and beta adrenergic receptors. By blocking alpha-1 receptors in blood vessels, they cause vasodilation; by blocking beta receptors in the heart, they slow heart rate and reduce cardiac output. This dual mechanism makes them particularly useful in heart failure and resistant hypertension.
How do alpha-beta blockers work?
Alpha-beta blockers competitively antagonize both alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on vascular smooth muscle and beta-1/beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the heart and other tissues. Alpha-1 blockade reduces peripheral vascular resistance without reflex tachycardia (because beta blockade prevents compensatory heart rate increase). Beta blockade reduces heart rate, cardiac contractility, and renin release.
Drugs in this class
- Carvedilol (Coreg, Coreg CR)