beta-Blockers in hypertension: is carvedilol different?
Most studies assessing the effects of beta-blockers were carried out with traditional, beta(1)-selective beta-blockers, such as metoprolol and atenolol. Pathophysiologic and pharmacologic studies have documented that not all beta-blockers are created equal. In particular, the pharmacologic and clinical profiles of the newer, vasodilating beta-blockers, such as carvedilol, have been shown to differ from those of the traditional beta-blockers. These differences, although relevant in the younger patient with hypertension, are particularly important in elderly patients in whom traditional beta-blockers may not be as effective or as well tolerated as the newer vasodilating agents.
Messerli
Franz H
FH
Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana 70121, USA. FMesserli@aol.com
Grossman
Ehud
E
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002227:Carbazoles / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000077261:Carvedilol; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011412:Propanolamines / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D002227:Carbazoles; D011412:Propanolamines; D000077261:Carvedilol