Which statement correctly characterizes atenolol?

Which statement correctly characterizes atenolol?

• A. Non-selective beta-adrenergic blocker
• B. Selective beta-1 adrenergic blocker with long duration of action
• C. Causes bronchoconstriction
• D. Quickly inactivated by plasma esterases

Answer: (B)

Atenolol is characterized as a cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic blocker with relatively long duration of action. It mainly blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, which lowers heart rate, contractility, and AV conduction, and reduces renin release. Because it is selective for beta-1 receptors at typical doses, it has less impact on beta-2 receptors in the lungs, making bronchoconstriction unlikely compared with non-selective beta blockers. It is not rapidly inactivated by plasma esterases; that rapid breakdown profile belongs to drugs like esmolol. Atenolol is excreted largely unchanged by the kidneys, contributing to its longer-lasting effect.

Atenolol is characterized as a cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic blocker with relatively long duration of action. It mainly blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, which lowers heart rate, contractility, and AV conduction, and reduces renin release. Because it is selective for beta-1 receptors at typical doses, it has less impact on beta-2 receptors in the lungs, making bronchoconstriction unlikely compared with non-selective beta blockers. It is not rapidly inactivated by plasma esterases; that rapid breakdown profile belongs to drugs like esmolol. Atenolol is excreted largely unchanged by the kidneys, contributing to its longer-lasting effect.