Beta adrenergic blocking agents to control hypertension in aviation personnel

Beta adrenergic receptor blocking agents were used in the treatment of 15 hypertensive aircrew who had failed to respond to thiazide diuretics. Atenolol (Tenormin) resulted in adequate control of blood pressure in all subjects. Side effects were minimal and insignificant. It is recommended that a cardio-selective, water-soluble beta blocker, such as atenolol, be made available to selected hypertensive aircrew.