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Pharmacy- Drug Information  

Drugs That Drugs That Lower Blood Pressure and Improve Heart Performance
(Beta Blockers)

The Generic (common) Name of the drug is listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name, which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or Product Name.

 
Examples:
 
Generic Name Marketer Example Product Name
Labetalol Glaxo Wellcome Inc. Trandate
Metoprolol Novartis Pharmaceuticals Lopressor
Atenolol AstraZeneca Tenormin
Labetalol Schering-Plough Normodyne
Propranolol American Home Products Inderal


 
What is a beta blocker drug?
Sometimes the heart works too hard pumping blood. Beta blockers reduce blood pressure and reduce heart rate, thereby decreasing the work of the heart.

 
Why is it given?
The doctor determines that the patient's blood pressure is too high and/or the heart may be working too hard.

 
How long is it used?
Usually this type of medication may be given for a short period of time or may be taken for the rest of the patient's life.

 
Does it have side effects?
Side effects do occur. This class of drugs can cause a slow heart rate, aggravate asthma or emphysema, and can occasionally worsen heart failure.
 


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