What is the primary mechanism by which beta-blockers decrease contractility in cardiac myocytes?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the primary mechanism by which beta-blockers affect the contractility of cardiac myocytes, indicating a need for knowledge about pharmacology and cardiac physiology.
Answer
Beta-blockers decrease contractility by inhibiting adrenergic receptors.
The primary mechanism by which beta-blockers decrease contractility in cardiac myocytes is by inhibiting adrenergic receptors, specifically blocking the action of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and epinephrine on beta-adrenergic receptors.
Answer for screen readers
The primary mechanism by which beta-blockers decrease contractility in cardiac myocytes is by inhibiting adrenergic receptors, specifically blocking the action of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and epinephrine on beta-adrenergic receptors.
More Information
Beta-blockers commonly target beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, leading to reduced heart rate and contractility (inotropic effect), which decreases the heart's workload and oxygen requirement.
Tips
A common mistake is misidentifying the receptor type affected; beta-blockers primarily affect beta-adrenergic receptors, not alpha.
Sources
- Beta-Adrenoceptor Antagonists (Beta-Blockers) - CV Pharmacology - cvpharmacology.com
- Selective Beta-1 Blockers - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Beta Blockers - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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