What class of medications are beta blockers commonly known as?

Beta blockers are commonly known as beta-adrenergic antagonists because they specifically block the beta-adrenergic receptors in the body. These receptors are part of the sympathetic nervous system and play a crucial role in the response to stress, affecting heart rate, contractility, and vascular resistance.

By inhibiting these receptors, beta blockers lead to a decrease in heart rate and lower blood pressure, making them effective for conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and arrhythmias. They also help in managing symptoms of anxiety and preventing migraine headaches. Understanding this classification is important for healthcare professionals managing cardiovascular and other systemic conditions, as it informs both prescribing practices and patient education.

The other classifications mentioned, such as alpha blockers, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers, refer to different mechanisms of action and are used for different therapeutic purposes, highlighting the unique role beta-adrenergic antagonists play in pharmacotherapy.