Which medication is NOT typically categorized as a beta blocker?

Amlodipine is not categorized as a beta blocker; rather, it is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium channel blockers work by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle, leading to decreased heart rate and contraction force, as well as vasodilation. This mechanism helps in treating conditions like hypertension and angina.

In contrast, the other medications listed—Atenolol, Propranolol, and Metoprolol—are all classified as beta blockers. Beta blockers primarily function by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart, which helps reduce heart rate and blood pressure, making them useful in managing conditions like hypertension, heart failure, and anxiety. Understanding the differences in drug classes is crucial for proper medication management and patient safety.