A multi-centre assessment of the role of oxprenolol in the treatment of hypertensive patients

Summary

In a multi-centre assessment of 887 hypertensive patients, treatment with the nonselective ^-receptor antagonist oxprenolol was substituted, in part or completely, for the adrenergic neurone blockers, bethanidine, debrisoquine or guanethidine. The results showed that after the gradual introduction, over approximately 10 weeks, of oxprenolol in a median daily dose of 200 mg. (range 80 mg. to 480 mg.) there was a significant reduction in blood pressure, particularly systolic levels. The incidence of troublesome side-effects associated with the three adrenergic neurone blockers, such as postural and exercise hypotension, tiredness, diarrhoea and impotence, was markedly reduced, with an accompanying improvement in the quality of the patient's life.

Key Words::

• Oxprenolol
• adrenergic beta receptor blockaders
• hypertension
• antihypertensive agents