-olol: Beta-Blockers (Drug Ending Cheat Sheet)
If the drug ends in -olol, it's a beta-blocker. Quick reference and NCLEX implications.
Beta-blockers end in -olol. Recognizing the ending lets you answer most pharm questions about action and side effects without knowing the specific drug.
What -olol means
Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist. Lowers HR and contractility. Some also block beta-2 (bronchoconstriction risk in asthma).
Common examples
Metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol, carvedilol, labetalol, bisoprolol, nadolol.
Hold parameters
HR <60 or SBP <90.
Teaching
Don't stop abruptly. Diabetics, masks hypoglycemia. Avoid in severe asthma (non-selective).
Frequently asked
Carvedilol ends in -olol but also blocks alpha?
Yes, combined alpha + beta. Same hold parameters.
Quick check
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