Question

A patient on verapamil should not be given a beta blocker as?

• A. Conduction block
• B. Bronchospasm
• C. Neurogenic shock
• D. Anaphylaxis

Hint:

Both agents depress the AV node - their additive effect is the danger.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Verapamil belongs to the non-DHP calcium channel blockers, a group whose cardiac action prominently slows impulse transmission through the atrioventricular node and reduces heart rate.

Step 2: Beta-adrenergic blockers exert a parallel depressant influence on the conducting system, also lowering rate and slowing nodal conduction.

Step 3: Giving both drugs together summates these effects, which can precipitate marked bradycardia and high-grade atrioventricular block, the reason verapamil is contraindicated alongside a beta blocker and in pre-existing second or third degree block.

Step 4: The remaining options do not apply: bronchospasm relates to beta blockade in asthmatics, while neurogenic shock and anaphylaxis are unrelated mechanisms.

\[\boxed{\text{Conduction block}}\]