Description
Metoprolol is an inhibitor of β1-adrenergic receptors that exhibits antihypertensive, cardioprotective, anti-anginal, class II anti-arrhythmic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant/antiepileptic, and pro-angiogenic activities. Metoprolol is clinically used to treat hypertension, myocardial infarction, tachycardia, and congestive heart failure (CHF). In animal models of atherosclerosis, metoprolol decreases levels of TNF-α and CXCL1, infiltration of macrophages, and size of atherosclerotic plaques. This compound also inhibits seizures in animal models and, separately, increases microvessel sprouting in aortic rings.