Class II antidysrhythmic medications

Class II antidysrhythmic medications

Also known as beta blockers, these medications help control dysrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms.

Nonselective beta blockers

Beta blockers, like propranolol, that block effects of both beta1 and beta2 receptors.

Cardioselective beta blockers

Beta blockers, like metoprolol, that mainly block beta1 receptors in the heart.

Beta1 receptors

Adrenergic receptors located in the heart that stimulate cardiac activity.

Beta2 receptors

Adrenergic receptors primarily located in the lungs that cause smooth muscle and bronchial relaxation.

Dysrhythmias

Abnormal heart rhythms often exacerbated by excessive stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Myocardial infarction (MI)

A heart attack that can lead to hyperirritability of the heart and potential dysrhythmias.

Bradycardia

A slower than normal heart rate, a possible side effect of beta blockers.

AV block

A condition involving a delay or blockage of electrical impulses in the heart, can worsen with beta blockers.

Bronchoconstriction

Narrowing of the airways in the lungs, potentially caused by nonselective beta blockers like propranolol.

Glycogenolysis

The breakdown of glycogen into glucose, which can be reduced by propranolol.

Anaphylaxis

A severe allergic reaction; beta blockers can hinder the effectiveness of epinephrine in treating this condition.

Rebound hypertension

A potential effect of abruptly stopping beta blocker medications, which can lead to increased blood pressure.

Continuous cardiac monitoring

A recommended practice for patients on class II antidysrhythmic medications to observe heart activity closely.

Sustained release tablets

Formulations of medications that should not be crushed or chewed to prevent rapid release and blood pressure drops.

Nursing considerations

Assessing baseline cardiovascular status, monitoring for side effects, and educating about safe administration of beta blockers.

Self-administration education

Teaching patients the importance of taking medications as prescribed and checking vital signs before administration.