alpha-blocker

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alpha-blocker

A doctor prescribes an alpha-blocker to a patient.

Definition

Noun: A type of medication that blocks alpha-adrenergic receptors in the body. This action relaxes certain muscles, particularly in the prostate gland and bladder neck, which helps improve urine flow. Alpha-blockers are primarily used to treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia).

Usage and Examples

  • Primary Medical Use:

    • The doctor prescribed an alpha-blocker to help with my urinary symptoms.
    • Treatment with an alpha-blocker often provides relief from BPH symptoms quickly.

  • Mechanism of Action:

    • An alpha-blocker works by relaxing smooth muscle tissue.
    • This alpha-blocker specifically targets receptors in the urinary tract.
Advanced Usage and Notes
  • Therapeutic Context: The term is almost exclusively used in medical and pharmacological contexts. It refers to the drug's mechanism (blocking alpha receptors) rather than a single brand.
  • Administration: It is commonly used in phrases discussing prescription, dosage, and effects.
    • He is on a low-dose alpha-blocker.
    • The new alpha-blocker has fewer side effects.
Variants and Related Words
  • Alpha-adrenergic blocking agent: A more formal, full technical name for an alpha-blocker.
  • Alpha-1 blocker / α1-blocker: A subtype that more selectively blocks alpha-1 receptors, commonly used for BPH.
  • Nonselective alpha-blocker: An older type that blocks both alpha-1 and alpha-2 receptors.
Synonyms
  • Alpha-adrenergic antagonist: The precise pharmacological synonym.
  • Alpha-receptor blocker: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the site of action.
Related Phrases and Collocations
  • Take an alpha-blocker: To use the medication.
    • Patients typically take an alpha-blocker once daily.
  • Alpha-blocker therapy: The use of these drugs as a treatment.
    • Alpha-blocker therapy is a first-line option for BPH.
  • Response to an alpha-blocker: How well a patient's symptoms improve.
    • His response to the alpha-blocker was excellent.
alpha-blocker

A doctor prescribes an alpha-blocker to a patient.

Noun
  1. any of various drugs that block alpha-adrenergic receptors; used in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia; relaxes the muscles of the prostate and bladder

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