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Definition of "alpha-blocker" [alpha-blocker]

  • A drug that opposes the excitatory effects of norepinephrine released from sympathetic nerve endings at alpha-receptors and that causes vasodilation and a decrease in blood pressure. Also called alpha-adrenergic blocking agent. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "alpha-blocker" in a sentence
  • "As an alternative, we chose a generic alpha-blocker called doxazosin as our Best Buy selection because it is as effective and safe as Flomax, but costs just $10 or less per month."
  • "If you and your doctor decide that a drug is appropriate for your condition, we still recommend the alpha-blocker doxazosin as your first option."
  • "Our recent Best Buy Drugs report on drugs to treat enlarged prostate, which is based on a rigorous analysis of more than 60 studies on drugs used to treat this condition, concluded that no one alpha-blocker is better or safer than another."