in full beta-adrenergic blocking agent
Any of a class of synthetic drugs used to treat a wide range of diseases and conditions of the sympathetic nervous system (see autonomic nervous system ).
Stimulation by epinephrine of beta-adrenergic receptors, which are predominately found in the heart but are also present in vascular and other smooth muscle , results in excitation of the sympathetic nervous system. By preventing that excitation, beta-blockers are useful in controlling anxiety , hypertension , and a variety of heart conditions (see heart disease ). They reduce the risk of a second heart attack .