Which medication is represented in the mnemonic for Beta-1 selective blockers?

Which medication is represented in the mnemonic for Beta-1 selective blockers?

• A. Amlodipine
• B. Atenolol
• C. Clonidine
• D. Verapamil

Answer: (B)

Beta-1 selective blockers primarily target the beta-1 adrenergic receptors, primarily found in the heart, leading to effects such as lowered heart rate and decreased contractility. Atenolol is a well-known medication within this class and is commonly represented in mnemonics that help recall various beta blockers. This specificity is crucial because beta-1 selective blockers are preferred in certain situations, such as in patients with respiratory issues, where beta-2 activity could potentially exacerbate the condition. Other options listed either belong to different classes or have different primary mechanisms of action. For example, amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used primarily for hypertension and angina; clonidine acts on alpha-2 adrenergic receptors and is used for hypertension; verapamil, another calcium channel blocker, is primarily used for cardiac conditions like arrhythmias and hypertension. Thus, Atenolol's clear identification as a beta-1 selective blocker solidifies its inclusion in the mnemonic, highlighting its importance in pharmacotherapy for conditions requiring selective beta-1 blockade.

Beta-1 selective blockers primarily target the beta-1 adrenergic receptors, primarily found in the heart, leading to effects such as lowered heart rate and decreased contractility. Atenolol is a well-known medication within this class and is commonly represented in mnemonics that help recall various beta blockers. This specificity is crucial because beta-1 selective blockers are preferred in certain situations, such as in patients with respiratory issues, where beta-2 activity could potentially exacerbate the condition.

Other options listed either belong to different classes or have different primary mechanisms of action. For example, amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used primarily for hypertension and angina; clonidine acts on alpha-2 adrenergic receptors and is used for hypertension; verapamil, another calcium channel blocker, is primarily used for cardiac conditions like arrhythmias and hypertension. Thus, Atenolol's clear identification as a beta-1 selective blocker solidifies its inclusion in the mnemonic, highlighting its importance in pharmacotherapy for conditions requiring selective beta-1 blockade.