Which beta-blocker is preferred for controlling supraventricular tachycardia during surgery or acute emergencies because its duration of action is approximately 10 minutes?
- A Esmolol ✓
- B Atenolol
- C Metoprolol
- D Propranolol
Correct answer: A. Esmolol
Explanation
Esmolol is an ultra-short acting, cardioselective beta-1 blocker with a half-life of about 9 minutes. Rapid ester hydrolysis by red cell esterases terminates its action quickly, allowing titration and rapid reversal if hemodynamic instability occurs. Metoprolol, atenolol, and propranolol have half-lives of several hours and cannot be rapidly cleared once given intravenously. This makes esmolol the agent of choice for perioperative tachyarrhythmias and for testing beta-blockade tolerance.
Reference: Katzung's Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 16th ed.
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