Prolonged effect of nadolol on heart rate in hyperthyroidism

There is extensive experience in the treatment of hyperthyroidism with beta-blockade. Because of the short half-life of propranolol the drug must be taken in divided doses. The effect of a single daily dose of a long-acting beta-blocking drug, nadolol, was investigated in 7 hyperthyroid patients. A satisfactory and prolonged reduction in heart rate was observed during continuous monitoring over a 24-hour period. Nadolol, therefore, is a possible alternative to propranolol in the treatment of hyperthyroidism with an advantage in the poorly-compliant patient.