16. Which of the following is a beta-blocker?

Answer: B

Explanation:

Metoprolol is a beta-blocker.

Metoprolol is classified as a beta-blocker, which is a type of medication used to manage various cardiovascular conditions by blocking the action of certain hormones on beta receptors in the heart.

A) Lisinopril

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, not a beta-blocker. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, thereby relaxing blood vessels.

B) Metoprolol

Metoprolol is indeed a beta-blocker, commonly used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and heart failure. It works by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the force of contraction, which helps to lower blood pressure and decrease the workload on the heart.

C) Amlodipine

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker, not a beta-blocker. It is used to treat high blood pressure and angina by relaxing the blood vessels and improving blood flow, but it does not affect beta receptors in the heart.

D) Furosemide

Furosemide is a loop diuretic, not a beta-blocker. It is primarily used to treat edema associated with heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease by promoting the excretion of water and electrolytes through urine.

Conclusion

Metoprolol is definitively a beta-blocker, making it the correct choice among the options provided. The other medications listed each belong to different classes and serve distinct purposes in medical treatment, which further confirms that they do not fit the criteria for beta-blockers.