List of Cardioselective Beta Blockers

Beta blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are a class of medication widely prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmias. They are also helpful in treating migraines and glaucoma, according to MayoClinic.com. The second generation of beta blockers brought to market is described as cardioselective, in that drugs in this group mostly block the binding of norepinephrine and epinephrine to beta-1 adrenoceptors, which help to control the heart’s rate and contractile force.

Acebutolol

• Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 1984, acebutolol is also marketed under the brand names Prent and Sectral, according to MedicineNet.com. As a cardioselective beta blocker, acebutolol is prescribed to help the heart function more efficiently. By blocking the beta-1 receptors, the drug reduces the workload on the heart by causing it to beat more slowly and move a lesser volume of blood overall. In lessening cardiac workload, acebutolol also reduces the heart’s oxygen requirements. The medication is marketed in capsules of 200 and 400 mg, one of which is usually taken once or twice a day.

Atenolol

• Also marketed under the brand name Tenormin, atenolol is available in 25, 50 and 100 mg tablets that are administered orally, according to RxList.com. It is also a cardioselective beta blocker that is prescribed for the treatment of angina, as well as high blood pressure. Common side effects of this and other cardioselective beta blockers include diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, leg pain, lightheadedness, nausea and vision problems. These usually disappear after a short time. If they do not, consult your physician.

Betaxolol

• This cardioselective beta blocker, also marketed under the brand name Kerlone, is available in tablets of 10, 20 and 40 mg. Most patients start with a once-daily dose of 10 mg, which may be increased in strength if the response to 10 mg is less than your doctor anticipated, according to Drugs.com. Betaxolol, as well as other cardioselective beta blockers, can interact with a variety of other drugs, so inform your doctor about all medications you are presently taking.

Bisoprolol

• Also sold under the brand name Zebeta, bisoprolol is available in 5 and 10 mg tablets. The usual daily dosage is between 2.5 and 20 mg, according to MedicineNet.com. This drug was brought to market shortly after it received FDA approval in July 1992.

Esmolol

• Marketed under the brand name Brevibloc, esmolol is a cardioselective beta blocker that is administered by a medical professional via injection. It is a short-acting medication that can be particularly effective in the control of arrhythmias.

Metoprolol

• Widely prescribed to treat hypertension, metoprolol is also marketed under the brand names Lopressor and Toprol XL, according to MayoClinic.com. It is most commonly taken orally in regular tablets of 25, 50 and 100 mg, or extended-release tablets of 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg. It is also available in an injectable form.

Nebivolol

• This drug, also marketed under the brand name Bystolic, is available in 2.5, 5 and 10 mg tablets and is prescribed primarily for the treatment of high blood pressure, according to RxList.com.