NCIt definition : A non-selective beta-adrenergic antagonist with antihypertensive and antiarrhythmic
activities. Nadolol competitively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors located in the
heart and vascular smooth muscle, inhibiting the activities of the catecholamines
epinephrine and norepinephrine and producing negative inotropic and chronotropic effects.
This agent exhibits antiarrhythmic activity via the impairment of atrioventricular
(AV) node conduction and a corresponding reduction in sinus rate. In the kidney, inhibition
of the beta-2 receptor within the juxtaglomerular apparatus results in the inhibition
of renin production and a subsequent reduction in angiotensin II and aldosterone levels,
thus inhibiting angiotensin II-dependent vasoconstriction and aldosterone-dependent
water retention.;