[Beta blockers in the treatment of arterial hypertension]

The authors present a detailed review on beta-blockers (BB) in the treatment of hypertension. In the introduction they deal with the organ distribution and effects of stimulation of adrenergic receptors, followed by a detailed classification of beta-blockers by selectivity and the presence of internal sympathetic activity (ISA or PAA). The mechanisms of the antihypertensive action of beta-blockers are due mainly to a reduction of the minute volume. However, other possible effects of BB are also mentioned. The authors discuss in detail the use of BB in hypertension and associated diseases, side-effects of BB, contraindications for their administration, possible interaction with other groups of drugs and the strategy of their use in patients with high blood pressure.