What type of drug is propranolol (Inderal)?

Propranolol is classified as a beta blocker, which is a type of medication that primarily works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta-adrenergic receptors throughout the body. This action leads to a decrease in heart rate, a lowering of blood pressure, and reduced strain on the heart. Beta blockers like propranolol are commonly used to manage conditions such as hypertension, anxiety, and certain types of arrhythmias. Their ability to mitigate the physical symptoms of anxiety and lower heart workload makes them invaluable in both cardiovascular and psychiatric therapeutic regimens.

In contrast, alpha agonists stimulate alpha-adrenergic receptors, corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that regulate various body functions including inflammation, and calcium channel blockers work by inhibiting calcium ions from entering cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, thereby causing relaxation and dilation of blood vessels. Each of these drug classes has specific mechanisms of action and indications, distinguishing them from beta blockers like propranolol.