Sectral belongs to a group of drugs called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, more often known as
beta blockers. As the name implies, these medications block beta receptors in the body. In addition to blocking beta receptors, however, Sectral also very slightly stimulates the beta receptors. Only a few beta blockers do this; this slight stimulatory action is known as "intrinsic sympathomimetic activity," or ISA.
Beta receptors are located in a number of places within the body, including the heart and blood vessels. Stress hormones (such as adrenaline) bind to these receptors and cause certain reactions in the body, such as:
By blocking beta receptors, Sectral causes the reverse effect of stress hormones and reduces blood pressure. It also suppresses certain irregular heartbeats that originate in the wrong part of the heart (known specifically as premature ventricular
contractions or PVCs). It is also important to note that Sectral is more likely to block beta-1 receptors (such as those in the heart), opposed to beta-2 receptors (such as those found in the lungs). Theoretically, this may make the medication safer than other beta blockers for people with breathing problems such as
asthma.
Sectral Use in Children or Teens
Sectral is not approved for children or teens. Talk with your child's healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using Sectral in children.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Sectral for something other than
high blood pressure. Sometimes, this medicine is used
off-label for treating
angina (chest pain).
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