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Comparison of the effects of atenolol and propranolol in labile hypertension
Insights
Atenolol effectively treats labile hypertension by stabilizing blood pressure and heart rate. Unlike propranolol, atenolol normalized carotid pulse upstroke time, making it a recommended treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Hypertension Management
Background:
- Labile hypertension requires effective and stable management.
- Beta-blockers are commonly used for hypertension, but their comparative efficacy in labile cases needs clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of atenolol and propranolol in young patients with labile hypertension.
- To evaluate the hemodynamic effects of single daily doses of atenolol versus propranolol.
Main Methods:
- A 15-day, crossover, double-blind trial involving young labile hypertensives.
- Non-invasive monitoring of arterial pressure, heart rate, systolic time intervals, and carotid pulse upstroke time.
- Measurements taken before and at 4 and 8 hours post-dose.
Main Results:
- Both atenolol and propranolol significantly reduced and stabilized arterial blood pressure and heart rate.
- Propranolol showed a tendency to return to abnormal values by 8 hours post-dose.
- Atenolol normalized carotid pulse upstroke time, while propranolol did not. Propranolol increased pre-ejection period, indicating negative inotropic effects.
Conclusions:
- Atenolol is recommended for treating labile hypertension due to its sustained efficacy and favorable hemodynamic profile.
- Single daily oral dosing of atenolol demonstrates significant benefits in managing labile hypertension.
Abstract:
The effects of a single daily dose of 100 mg. of atenolol and an equivalent dose of propranolol were compared during a crossover, 15 day blind trial in a group of young labile hypertensives. Arterial pressure, heart rate, systolic time intervals and the carotid pulse upstroke time, recorded by external non-invasive procedures, were measured before and 4 and 8 hours after the last dose of both drugs. Both beta blocking agents significantly reduced and stabilized the arterial BP and the heart rate to normal values. However, a tendency to return to abnormal values was observed 8 hours after propranolol administration. Both drugs provoked an increase in the pre-ejection period, but with propranolol this increase was related to a larger isovolumetric contraction time, pointing to a negative inotropic action. The carotid pulse upstroke time was increased to normal values with atenolol. Propranolol failed to alter this value. Atenolol in a single oral daily dose is recommended in the treatment of labile hypertension.