Primary and Historical Trade Names for Oxprenolol
Oxprenolol is the generic name for a non-selective beta-adrenergic antagonist used historically to treat various cardiovascular conditions. While the generic name is standardized globally, the brand or trade names under which the drug was sold varied significantly by country and manufacturer. The most prominent and widely recognized brand name is Trasicor. This name was especially well-known in European markets where the drug was frequently prescribed for conditions such as angina pectoris, abnormal heart rhythms, and high blood pressure. The existence of multiple names for a single drug is a common occurrence in the pharmaceutical industry, often influenced by patent laws, marketing strategies, and regional regulations at the time of its development.
Other Global and Historical Trade Names
Beyond Trasicor, oxprenolol was marketed under a variety of other names throughout its history. Some of these include:
- Trasacor: An alternative brand name used in some regions.
- Coretal: Another trade name for the drug.
- Laracor: A brand name mentioned in historical pharmaceutical contexts.
- Slow-Pren and Slow-Trasicor: These names often indicated a slow-release or extended-release formulation of the medication.
- Tevacor and Trasidex: Additional names used in different markets.
- Evinrozit and Ranidrox: Names identified in research product catalogs.
The Pharmacology of Oxprenolol
Oxprenolol's pharmacological profile is defined by two key characteristics: its non-selectivity and its intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA). As a non-selective beta-blocker, it antagonizes both beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors. This differs from newer, cardioselective beta-blockers that primarily target beta-1 receptors in the heart. The blocking of beta-receptors prevents the actions of catecholamines like epinephrine and norepinephrine, leading to a decrease in heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure. The intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) means oxprenolol also has a partial agonist effect on these receptors. This unique dual action provides some level of receptor stimulation even while blocking the stronger effects of natural catecholamines, which may result in less severe side effects such as reduced heart rate (bradycardia) compared to beta-blockers without ISA.
Why Multiple Names Exist
For a medication, having both a generic name (oxprenolol) and multiple brand names is a normal part of its commercial lifecycle. The generic name refers to the drug's active chemical ingredient and is standardized by international bodies. The brand names are proprietary names given by pharmaceutical companies to market the product. When a drug's patent expires, other companies can manufacture and sell the medication under their own brand names or as a generic drug, leading to a proliferation of names over time and across different geographic markets. This is why Oxprenolol could be sold as Trasicor by one company and Coretal by another.
Current Status and Availability
Despite its historical significance, the availability of oxprenolol has diminished considerably. It has been largely discontinued for general prescription use in many countries, including the United States, as newer and often more selective beta-blockers have become the standard of care. However, the substance remains relevant in certain research contexts. For example, a derivative called S-oxprenolol has been investigated for potential use in treating muscle wasting associated with conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The shift towards newer medications is a testament to the continuous evolution of pharmacology and the ongoing search for more effective and safer therapeutic agents.
Comparison of Oxprenolol with Other Beta-Blockers
| Feature | Oxprenolol | Propranolol | Atenolol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selectivity | Non-selective ($β_1$, $β_2$) | Non-selective ($β_1$, $β_2$) | Cardioselective ($β_1$) |
| Intrinsic Sympathomimetic Activity (ISA) | Yes (Moderate) | No | No |
| Lipid Solubility | Moderate to high | High | Low |
| Central Nervous System (CNS) Effects | Yes, due to moderate lipid solubility | Yes, due to high lipid solubility | Minimal, due to low lipid solubility |
| Primary Therapeutic Uses | Hypertension, angina, arrhythmia | Hypertension, angina, migraine prevention | Hypertension, angina |
Conclusion
While oxprenolol is no longer a commonly prescribed medication, its history and pharmacology are significant in the development of beta-blocker therapy. Its most famous brand name, Trasicor, represents its former prominence in cardiovascular medicine. The multitude of other historical trade names, such as Coretal and Trasacor, reflect the global pharmaceutical marketplace of its time. Understanding these different names is crucial for anyone researching historical medical treatments or for those encountering the drug in older records. The evolution from non-selective beta-blockers like oxprenolol to more specialized and safer drugs illustrates the continual progress in pharmacological research and development. To explore other drug information, the Therapeutic Target Database offers comprehensive insights.
