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Clinical and haemodynamic study of atenolol (Tenormin) in essential hypertension
Insights
Atenolol, a beta1-adrenoreceptor-blocking agent, effectively reduced blood pressure in out-patients with essential hypertension. Minimal side effects were observed during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Essential hypertension is a widespread condition requiring effective treatment.
- Beta-blockers are a common class of drugs used to manage hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of atenolol in treating essential hypertension.
- To assess the impact of atenolol on blood pressure, cardiac output, and peripheral resistance.
Main Methods:
- A study involving twelve out-patients diagnosed with essential hypertension.
- Treatment with atenolol at a mean daily dose of 110 mg (range 75-200 mg/day).
- Monitoring of blood pressure, cardiac output, and calculated total peripheral resistance.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in blood pressure was observed in patients treated with atenolol.
- Minimal side effects were reported during the treatment period.
- Cardiac output decreased, correlating with changes in total peripheral resistance rather than blood pressure reduction.
Conclusions:
- Atenolol is an effective treatment for essential hypertension with a favorable side effect profile.
- The drug's effect on cardiac output is linked to peripheral resistance changes.
Abstract:
1. The beta1-adrenoreceptor-blocking agent atenolol was studied in the treatment of twelve out-patients with essential hypertension. 2. With a mean dose of 110 mg of atenolol daily (range 75-200 mg/day) we observed a pronounced decrease in blood pressure. 3. Only minimal side effects were seen. 4. Cardiac output decreased from 4-6 to 3-4 l/min during treatment. This decrease did not correlate with the decrease in blood pressure but correlated well with the changes in calculated total peripheral resistance.