The effect of chronic propranolol therapy on regional cerebral blood flow in hypertensive patients

In 31 hypertensive patients the effect of chronic oral administration of the beta blocking agent propranolol on regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was studied, using the non-invasive 133Xenon inhalation technique. The results of the measurements were compared to the rCBF obtained in an age-matched normal control group. Our study shows that during long-term therapy with low doses of propranolol (less than 120 mg/daily) the rCBF is unaffected, but it is increased significantly if higher doses (greater than 120 mg/daily) are used. In all six patients who served as their own control, as they had basic rCBF measurements before or during low-dose propranolol, the rCBF on high-dose propranolol became significantly increased. The possible mechanisms which may cause the increased rCBF on high-dose propranolol are discussed.