title: Antihypertensive therapy in the geriatric patient: II. A review of the alpha1-adrenergic blocking agents.
abstract: The prevalence of hypertension increases with age. Multiple physiologic factors are involved in the development of hypertension in the elderly. Alpha1-adrenergic blocking agents lower blood pressure through a reduction in total peripheral resistance. Prazosin, terazosin, and doxazosin have been shown to be equally effective in reducing blood pressure in older persons. The bioavailability, terminal elimination half-life, and volume of distribution of prazosin is increased in the elderly. Hybrid drugs, such as ketanserin, urapidil, and indoramin are also effective in lowering blood pressure. Ketanserin seems to have a greater effect on blood pressure reduction in persons older than 60 years of age. Alpha1-adrenergic blockers may be used safely in patients with diabetes, asthma, and hyperlipidemia.
authors.affiliation: School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City 64110-2499.
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Studer
authors.forename: R W
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Piepho
mesh_terms: D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy*; D017379:Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male
chemical_list: D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents