Heart Drug May Block Stress of Traumatic Memories

Memories of wailing sirens, mangled bodies, and smoldering debris in the wake of this month’s terrorist attacks in London and Egypt will produce widespread distress in thousands of people.

Can a common drug snuff out the debilitating emotions these memories trigger?

Researchers say the beta-blocker propranolol, commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart problems, disrupts the way the brain stores memories.