PLE-6947

A 43-year-old woman with elevated blood pressure, visual disturbances, and vomiting has increased urinary excretion of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid (VMA). A computerized tomographic scan shows an adrenal mass that is consistent with a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. While awaiting surgery to remove the tumor, she is treated with phenoxybenzamine to lower her blood pressure. What is the mechanism of this action of the drug?