Heart Disease:Statins and Other Drugs

Beta-Blockers for Coronary Artery Disease

  • Print
content provided by Healthwise
12
 
Examples

Generic NameBrand Name
AcebutololSectral
AtenololTenormin
CarvedilolCoreg
LabetalolNormodyne, Trandate
MetoprololLopressor, Toprol XL
NadololCorgard
PenbutololLevatol
PindololVisken
PropranololInderal
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.

More on heart drugs
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 time—maybe for the rest of your life—to lower the risk of sudden death.


Next Page: How well they work
12
 
Last Updated: April 14, 2008
PREVIOUS
Blood Pressure Medications
NEXT
Calcium Channel Blockers Can Treat Coronary Artery Disease

More Stories on This Topic

More Heart Disease Stories
  • Print
Last Updated: January 8, 2008
Author:
Robin Parks, MS
Medical Review:
Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine

Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology

Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition


© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.



This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.