If you’ve ever been tricked by a Step 1 question where a patient gets hypotensive and bradycardic after taking a “-lol” drug—you’re not alone. Beta blockers are USMLE classics, and for good reason: they tie together pharmacology, cardiovascular physiology, and clinical judgment.

Today’s post breaks down the essentials of beta blockers, how they show up on the USMLE, and how to avoid the common traps—using a KOTC visual that maps beta selectivity and clinical uses.