alpha blocker
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Definition
Noun A type of medication that inhibits alpha-adrenergic receptors. These drugs are primarily used to treat conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by relaxing the muscles in the prostate gland and bladder neck, which improves urine flow.
Usage
"Alpha blocker" is a medical term. It is used to refer to a specific class of pharmaceutical drugs. * The doctor prescribed an alpha blocker to help with my urinary symptoms. * Common alpha blockers include tamsulosin and doxazosin. * The mechanism of action for this medication is that it is an alpha blocker.
Advanced Usage
- Therapeutic Use: While primarily for BPH, some alpha blockers are also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Example: Although newer medications exist, certain alpha blockers are still occasionally prescribed for hypertension.
Variants and Related Words
- Alpha-adrenergic blocking agent: A more formal, technical synonym for "alpha blocker."
- Alpha-1 blocker: A more specific term for a subclass of alpha blockers that target alpha-1 receptors, which are most relevant for treating BPH.
Synonyms
- Alpha-adrenergic antagonist
- Alpha-adrenergic blocker
Related Phrases & Context
- To be on/take an alpha blocker: This phrase describes the patient's use of the medication.
- Example: The patient has been taking an alpha blocker for six months with good results.
- Alpha blocker therapy: Refers to the treatment regimen involving these drugs.
- Example: He started alpha blocker therapy to manage his enlarged prostate.
Noun
- any of various drugs that block alpha-adrenergic receptors; used in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia; relaxes the muscles of the prostate and bladder