Beta-blockers: no longer an option for uncomplicated hypertension.
Traditionally, beta-blockers, used as first-line agents to treat uncomplicated hypertension, were recommended by national and international guidelines despite a paucity of evidence regarding their cardiovascular benefit. However, evidence from recent trials and meta-analyses has questioned the use of beta-blockers as preferred agents. This article reviews the data available from clinical trials and argues that beta-blockers are less efficacious than other currently available antihypertensive agents for patients with uncomplicated hypertension.
Bangalore
Sripal
S
Hypertension Program, Division of Cardiology, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10019, USA.
Kamalakkannan
Gayathri
G
Messerli
Franz H
FH
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents