In: Anatomy and Physiology
Discuss a specific drug that affects the autonomic nervous system.
Specific drug : Atenolol
This drug is classified as beta blockers. They are primarily used to treat hypertension, other uses include treating for chest pain (angina), irregular heart beat, etc. Atenolol is also used to lower the risk of death after a heart attack.
Atenolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers. It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. They block the ability of norepinephrine or epinephrine to bind to the receptors so that the effect is cut off, this effect lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.
Atenolol type of drugs are classifed as Sympatholytic drugs,since they interfere with the sympathetic nervous system, which is part of autonomus system, they primarily work as antagonist to the adrenergic receptors.
Atenolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions, especially if you are driving or doing anything that requires you to be awake and alert. If taken with alcohol it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.