beta blocker

or beta-blocker

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. any of various substances that interfere with the action of the beta receptors: used primarily to reduce the heart rate or force in the prevention, management, or treatment of angina, hypertension, or arrythmias.

beta-blocker

noun

1. any of a class of drugs, such as propranolol, that inhibit the activity of the nerves that are stimulated by adrenaline; they therefore decrease the contraction and speed of the heart: used in the treatment of high blood pressure and angina pectoris

beta-blocker

/ bā′tə-blŏk′ər /

1. A drug that blocks the excitatory effects of epinephrine on the cardiovascular system by binding to cell-surface receptors (called beta-receptors). Beta-blockers are used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and certain abnormal heart rhythms.

Other Words From

• beta-blocking adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of beta blocker¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Their work has focused on Propranolol, a beta-blocker that has been on the market for several years to treat hypertension.

From The Daily Beast