Propranolol

Propranolol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocker that reduces the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline at beta receptors. It is used for cardiovascular conditions, migraine prevention, tremor, and other indications.

Beta blocker: A drug that blocks beta-adrenergic receptors, reducing responses to adrenaline and noradrenaline. Propranolol belongs to this drug class and blocks both major beta-receptor subtypes.
Hypertension: Persistently elevated arterial blood pressure that increases the risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease. Propranolol can lower blood pressure, though it is not generally a first-line choice for uncomplicated hypertension.
Metoprolol: A beta blocker that preferentially blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors at usual doses. Unlike metoprolol, propranolol blocks beta-2 receptors as well as beta-1 receptors.
Bronchospasm: A narrowing of the airways caused by contraction of the smooth muscles surrounding them. Blocking beta-2 receptors can worsen airway narrowing, making propranolol unsuitable for some people with asthma.
James Black: A Scottish pharmacologist who developed propranolol and helped establish rational drug design for receptor targets. Black’s research led to propranolol and earned him the 1988 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Beta-adrenergic receptor: A cell-surface receptor activated by adrenaline and noradrenaline that helps regulate heart, lung, and metabolic activity. Propranolol produces its effects by occupying these receptors without activating them.
Cardiac arrhythmia: An abnormality in the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat caused by disordered electrical activity. By slowing cardiac activity, propranolol can help control some fast or irregular rhythms.
Atenolol: A beta-1-selective blocker used mainly for cardiovascular conditions. Atenolol is less likely than propranolol to block beta-2 effects in the lungs.
Bradycardia: A slower-than-normal heart rate, which may be harmless or may impair circulation. Reduced beta-1 stimulation can make propranolol slow the heart excessively.
Beta-adrenergic antagonist: A substance that binds beta-adrenergic receptors and blocks their activation by natural signaling molecules. Propranolol was the first clinically successful drug in this pharmacological class.

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