Pharmacology · Cardiovascular Drugs (Antihypertensives, Anti-Anginals, Heart Failure, Anti-Arrhythmics)

Which beta-blocker combines cardioselectivity with direct vasodilation mediated by increased nitric oxide release from endothelium?

  • A Bisoprolol
  • B Nebivolol
  • C Carvedilol
  • D Atenolol
Correct answer: B. Nebivolol

Explanation

Nebivolol is highly beta-1 selective and uniquely produces vasodilation by stimulating endothelial nitric oxide synthase, increasing NO release. This gives it a favorable hemodynamic profile with reduced peripheral resistance rather than the vasoconstriction seen with older agents. Carvedilol dilates vessels by alpha-1 blockade, not by NO release, and is nonselective. Bisoprolol and atenolol are plain cardioselective blockers without vasodilating properties. Nebivolol also has beneficial effects on endothelial dysfunction, making it attractive in hypertensive patients with comorbidities.

Reference: Goodman & Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 14th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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