Effects of the beta-adrenoceptor antagonists acebutolol and metoprolol on sleep pattern in normal subjects

The effects of acute introduction and withdrawal of 2 new beta-adrenergic blockers, acebutolol and metoprolol, on sleep in normal subjects were investigated. Both the subjective effects of the drug and EEG sleep variables were determined during a baseline period with placebo and in relation to the drug. The results showed that neither drug had a significant effect on sleep pattern in normal subjects. However, a transient effect on certain sleep parameters was seen on the first night of drug administration, with complete return to baseline, on the following night without any evidence of rebound. Possible mechanisms to explain the central actions of beta-adrenergic blockers are briefly discussed.