Psycho-Babble Medication Thread 387566

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Difference between Alpha and Beta Blockers?

Posted by becksA on September 7, 2004, at 8:41:45

I don't know much of anything about these types of drugs, but recently heard that Alpha blockers are often for blood pressure. If beta blockers drop the blood pressure as well, what is the difference between the two?

thanks

Re: Difference between Alpha and Beta Blockers?

Posted by SLS on September 7, 2004, at 9:02:10

In reply to Difference between Alpha and Beta Blockers?, posted by becksA on September 7, 2004, at 8:41:45

> I don't know much of anything about these types of drugs, but recently heard that Alpha blockers are often for blood pressure. If beta blockers drop the blood pressure as well, what is the difference between the two?
>
> thanks

Both drugs block norepinephrine (NE) receptors, but different subtypes.

The NE beta subtype is located in the brain and autonomic nervous system and serves the command and control centers for blood pressure management. Stimulation of these receptors raises blood pressure and increases heart rate.

The NE alpha subtype is located at the blood vessels themselves and act to engage the mechanical constrictors.

Blocking either NE subtype will result in decreasing blood pressure.

- Scott

Re: Difference between Alpha and Beta Blockers?

Posted by King Vultan on September 7, 2004, at 10:32:24

In reply to Difference between Alpha and Beta Blockers?, posted by becksA on September 7, 2004, at 8:41:45

> I don't know much of anything about these types of drugs, but recently heard that Alpha blockers are often for blood pressure. If beta blockers drop the blood pressure as well, what is the difference between the two?
>
> thanks

The blood pressure decrease associated with alpha blockers tends to be more orthostatic in nature, that is, BP will drop suddenly upon standing. For this reason, alpha blockers are considered a relatively poor means of controlling BP, but they are very useful for men with BPH (benign enlarged prostates) who have difficulties urinating. The prostate gland is loaded with alpha 1 adrenergic receptors, and blockading those receptors will tend to relax the prostate muscles and ease the constriction on urine flow.

Todd

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