Antihypertensive properties of ketanserin in combination with beta-adrenergic blocking agents

The antihypertensive effect of ketanserin in combination with beta-adrenergic blockade was assessed in a double-blind crossover (4 weeks) manner in 10 patients with essential hypertension. The addition of ketanserin (40 mg b.i.d.) to optimal doses of beta-adrenergic blockers had significant antihypertensive effects compared with treatment with beta-adrenergic blockers alone. When followed for 24 h at steady-state conditions, ketanserin effectively reduced the blood pressure during a major part of the day, with maximal effect occurring at the time of the peak plasma concentration of ketanserin (1-2 h after tablet intake). Six patients initially reported a slight sedation during ketanserin treatment.