| Generic Name | Brand Name |
|---|---|
| Acebutolol | Sectral |
| Atenolol | Tenormin |
| Carvedilol | Coreg |
| Labetalol | Normodyne, Trandate |
| Metoprolol | Lopressor, Toprol XL |
| Nadolol | Corgard |
| Penbutolol | Levatol |
| Pindolol | Visken |
| Propranolol | Inderal |
| Timolol maleate |
How it works
Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart by slowing the heart rate. A more rapid heart rate caused by exertion and excitement increases the workload on the heart.
Why it is used
Beta-blockers lower heart rate and blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart. This in turn can help relieve or prevent chest pain (angina). Beta-blockers are often used with other medications to treat a heart attack in progress.
Beta-blockers are also taken after a heart attack for a long timemaybe for the rest of your lifeto lower the risk of sudden death.

Last Updated:
January 8, 2008

