beta-adrenergic antagonist
(BAY-tuh-A-dreh-NER-jik an-TA-guh-nist)
A type of drug
that blocks the action of substances, such as adrenaline,
on nerve cells and causes blood vessels to relax and dilate
(widen). This allows blood to flow more easily and lowers
blood pressure and the heart rate.
Beta-adrenergic antagonists are used to treat
high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), abnormal heart
rate (arrhythmia), congestive heart failure, and several
other conditions. They may also shrink certain types of
vascular tumors, such as hemangiomas. Also called beta-adrenergic blocking agent and beta-blocker.