Class II Antidysrhythmic Therapy

Beta blockers decrease the sympathetic response by blocking which neurotransmitters? (Select all that apply)

Which therapeutic effect is expected in a patient prescribed a beta blocker after a myocardial infarction?

Which time frame is the half-life of propranolol extended release?

Which beta blockers block both beta1 and beta2 receptors? (Select all that apply)

Cardioselective beta blockers are preferred for patients with which medical conditions? (Select all that apply)

What should Mr. C do if he wants to take an antacid while on metoprolol?

Which sign or symptom should Mr. C report immediately while taking metoprolol?

Over how many minutes should metoprolol be administered intravenously?

Propranolol is contraindicated for a patient with which conditions? (Select all that apply)

What should a patient taking extended-release metoprolol know about how to take the medication?

Beta Blockers Overview

Beta blockers decrease sympathetic nervous system response by blocking catecholamines, specifically epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Commonly used after myocardial infarction to reduce myocardial workload, decrease dysrhythmias, and lower blood pressure.

Propranolol Specifics

The half-life of extended release propranolol is approximately 8 to 10 hours.
Propranolol, along with pindolol and carvedilol, blocks both beta1 and beta2 receptors.

Cardioselective Beta Blockers

Preferred in patients with diabetes and respiratory disease to minimize adverse effects on these conditions.

Medication Administration Guidelines

Metoprolol should be taken at least 2 hours before or after antacids to ensure proper absorption.
Intravenous metoprolol must be administered slowly over 1 to 2 minutes.

Monitoring and Reporting

Patients taking metoprolol must report any swelling of feet and legs, as it may indicate heart failure.
Heart rate should be monitored, and a rate of 65 beats/min should not be ignored.

Contraindications and Precautions

Propranolol is contraindicated in patients with heart failure due to the risk of suppressed myocardial contractility.
It is also contraindicated in those with sinus bradycardia, as it may worsen the condition.

Extended-Release Metoprolol

Metoprolol extended-release should be taken whole; it should not be crushed or chewed.
Patients must understand the importance of regular dosing and must not skip doses unnecessarily.

Test your knowledge on Class II antidysrhythmic therapy, focusing specifically on beta blockers. This quiz will cover the mechanisms of action of beta blockers and their effect on neurotransmitters. Understand the role of epinephrine and norepinephrine in the sympathetic response.