beta-blocker

noun

be·​ta-block·​er ˈbā-tə-ˌblä-kər How to pronounce beta-blocker (audio)
: any of a class of drugs (such as propranolol) that decrease the rate and force of heart contractions and lower high blood pressure by blocking the activity of beta-receptors
beta-blocking
ˈbā-tə-ˌblä-kiŋ How to pronounce beta-blocker (audio)
adjective

Examples of beta-blocker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Doctors put him on beta-blockers, but his symptoms didn't improve. — Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026 Likewise, those on certain medications, such as beta-blockers and antihypertensives, and people with certain heart or lung conditions can be at greater risk. — Andrea Thompson, Scientific American, 11 June 2026 Those who need to be especially careful in the heat include the elderly, children, pregnant women and people taking certain drugs, such as psychotropic medications or beta-blockers to lower blood pressure. — Kristi Swartz, AJC.com, 29 June 2026 People taking diuretics, beta-blockers or any transdermal medication patches should check with a doctor first since heat significantly increases drug absorption through the skin. — Allison Palmer updated June 24, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for beta-blocker

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beta-blocker was in 1965

Rhymes for beta-blocker

See All Rhymes for beta-blocker

Browse Nearby Words

betabacterium
beta-blocker
beta brass
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Beta-blocker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beta-blocker. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

beta-blocker

noun
be·​ta-block·​er -ˈbläk-ər How to pronounce beta-blocker (audio)
: any of a group of drugs (as propranolol) that combine with and block the activity of a beta-receptor to decrease the heart rate and force of contractions and lower high blood pressure and that are used especially to treat hypertension, angina pectoris, and ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias compare alpha-blocker

More from Merriam-Webster on beta-blocker

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about beta-blocker

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