title: [Alpha blockaders--first or second line antihypertensive agents?].
abstract: Alpha-receptor blockers reduce blood pressure by blocking of the alpha 1-receptors in the smooth muscle cells in the arteriolar walls. The heart pump function is not disturbed. Most studies have shown that the alpha-receptor blockers induce a reduction in plasma-triglycerides and an increase in the ratio between HDL- and LDL-cholesterol. They do not interfere with the metabolism of electrolytes, glucose or uric acid and have no negative effect on pulmonary function. Although long-term use does not induce a permanent increase in heart rate, some patients respond to initial therapy with faster heart rate and palpitations. The alpha-receptor blockers should not be used in patients with coronary heart disease if the patient is not on chronic beta-blockade. When these precautions are followed, the alpha-blockers can be used as first-line treatment--just like ACE-inhibitors and calcium-antagonists.
authors.affiliation: Hjerteavdelingen, Haukeland sykehus, Bergen.
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Lund-Johansen
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Hjermann
authors.forename: B M
authors.initials: BM
authors.lastname: Iversen
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Thaulow
mesh_terms: D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000075202:Contraindications; D004341:Drug Evaluation; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents
vernacular_title: Alfablokkere--første-eller annenhånds blodtrykkspreparater?