Beta blockers
Slow the heart down
Every generic name in this class ends in -olol. High blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heart rhythms, heart failure — and, as eye drops, glaucoma.
Blocks beta receptors so adrenaline can't speed the heart up or raise its workload.
The 6 beta blockers in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Metoprolol | Toprol-XL / Lopressor | hypertension, HF, angina |
| Carvedilol | Coreg | HF, hypertension |
| Propranolol | Inderal | hypertension, tremor, migraine |
| Atenolol | Tenormin | hypertension, angina |
| Timolol | Timoptic | glaucoma (↑IOP) |
| Nebivolol | Bystolic | hypertension |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleEvery generic name ends in -olol.
- check_circleBeta-1 selective agents act mainly on the heart; nonselective ones also affect the lungs.
- check_circleTimolol is the same class delivered as an eye drop for glaucoma.
- check_circleCarvedilol adds alpha blockade, so it lowers blood pressure more.
Never stop abruptly — sudden withdrawal can trigger rebound chest pain or a dangerous rise in heart rate.
-olol identifies a beta blocker. Nonselective agents are used cautiously in asthma.
Drill beta blockers the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What does the suffix -olol mean? add
A generic drug name ending in -olol identifies it as one of the beta blockers. High blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heart rhythms, heart failure — and, as eye drops, glaucoma.
What drugs are in the beta blockers class? add
Metoprolol, Carvedilol, Propranolol, Atenolol, Timolol, Nebivolol. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are beta blockers used for? add
High blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heart rhythms, heart failure — and, as eye drops, glaucoma.
How do beta blockers work? add
Blocks beta receptors so adrenaline can't speed the heart up or raise its workload.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.