What medication is commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and is a selective beta-blocker?

What medication is commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and is a selective beta-blocker?

• A. Propranolol (Inderal)
• B. Metoprolol (Lopressor)
• C. Aspirin
• D. Albuterol

Answer: (B)

Metoprolol, known by its brand name Lopressor, is a commonly prescribed medication for high blood pressure that falls under the category of selective beta-blockers. These types of medications primarily target the beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to a decrease in heart rate and contractility, which effectively lowers blood pressure. This targeted action helps in managing hypertension with reduced side effects compared to non-selective beta-blockers, making metoprolol a preferred choice for many patients. Other medications listed do not serve this specific function. Propranolol, for example, is a non-selective beta-blocker that affects both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors, which can lead to bronchoconstriction – a concern for asthmatic patients. Aspirin, primarily used as an anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet agent, does not impact blood pressure directly. Albuterol is a bronchodilator used to treat asthma and is not indicated for managing high blood pressure. Thus, metoprolol is the correct answer because of its specific action as a selective beta-blocker used for hypertension management.

Metoprolol, known by its brand name Lopressor, is a commonly prescribed medication for high blood pressure that falls under the category of selective beta-blockers. These types of medications primarily target the beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to a decrease in heart rate and contractility, which effectively lowers blood pressure. This targeted action helps in managing hypertension with reduced side effects compared to non-selective beta-blockers, making metoprolol a preferred choice for many patients.

Other medications listed do not serve this specific function. Propranolol, for example, is a non-selective beta-blocker that affects both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors, which can lead to bronchoconstriction – a concern for asthmatic patients. Aspirin, primarily used as an anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet agent, does not impact blood pressure directly. Albuterol is a bronchodilator used to treat asthma and is not indicated for managing high blood pressure. Thus, metoprolol is the correct answer because of its specific action as a selective beta-blocker used for hypertension management.