Pharmacology · single question
A 68-year-old female with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and asthma, taking albuterol, atorvastatin, and metoprolol, has a blood pressure of 142/92 mmHg. What is the mechanism of action of the medication used to control her hypertension?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Competitively inhibits beta-1 receptors
Metoprolol is a beta-1 selective adrenergic receptor blocker, reducing heart rate and myocardial contractility (and renin release) to lower blood pressure — its beta-1 selectivity (versus a non-selective beta-blocker) helps minimize unwanted beta-2 effects, such as bronchoconstriction, which is particularly relevant in this patient given her asthma history.