Bucindolol: effects on blood pressure, airways resistance and serum creatine phosphokinase

The effect of bucindolol on pulse, blood pressure and airways resistance was studied in eight patients. One hour after 150 mg bucindolol, a significant decrease in supine, standing and post-exercise blood pressure was observed. No change in blood pressure occurred 10 to 14 h after doses ranging from 50-150 mg indicating that bucindolol has a relatively short duration of action. A dose related inhibition of exercise induced tachycardia was observed consistant with beta-receptor blocking activity. However, there was no change in the resting pulse indicating partial sympathomimetic activity. There was no increase in airways resistance at all doses of bucindolol. Serum creatine phosphokinase increased beyond normal limits in 3 out of 6 patients studied, probably due to a direct effect upon skeletal muscle.