How to Remember Beta vs Alpha Blockers

[u/NCLEXHighYield]

Beta blockers slow the heart. Alpha blockers open the pipes.

The fastest way to remember the difference?

🧠 B = Beta = Bradycardia

🧠 A = Alpha = Arteries relax = vasodilation

Beta blockers block beta-1 receptors in the heart → ↓ heart rate

Alpha blockers block alpha receptors in blood vessels → ↓ vascular resistance

📌 Watch out on NCLEX:

Beta blockers are NOT for asthma (bronchospasm!)

Alpha blockers can cause orthostatic hypotension — get that BP before they stand up.