A physician prescribes atenolol, 50 mg P.O. twice a day to a patient with hypertension. Atenolol primarily inhibits beta-1 receptors. Where are the beta-1 receptors primarily located?

Explanation

• Beta-1 receptors are found primarily in the heart. Blocking the beta-1 receptors will decrease cardiac output by decreasing heart rate, conduction velocity, and stroke volume. Decreasing the cardiac output results in the desired effect of lowered blood pressure 

• Beta-2 receptors are found in the bronchi (lungs), arteries/arterioles, and the uterus

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