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beta-blocker
Any of a class of drugs that block impulses to certain nerve receptors (beta receptors) in various tissues throughout the body, including the heart, airways, and peripheral arteries. These drugs are generally prescribed to regulate the heart rate, reduce blood pressure, relieve angina, and improve survival following a heart attack. However, they are also being used in an increasingly wide range of other conditions, including glaucoma, liver disease, thyrotoxicosis, migraine, and anxiety states. Beta-blockers are not suitable for all patients and are not used for patients with asthma or severe lung disease.
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• HEALTH AND DISEASE
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