Effects of Chronic Administration of Enalapril and Propranolol on the Large Arteries in Essential Hypertension

Abstract

The forearm arterial effects of enalapril and propranolol were compared by means of pulsed Doppler velocimetry in 28 patients with hypertension after treatment for 3-6 months. Enalapril decreased blood pressure, increased both brachial artery diameter and blood flow, decreased vascular resistance, and increased the arterial compliance of the forearm. Propranolol also decreased blood pressure but did not produce any other changes. It may be concluded that the treatment of hypertension with enalapril, but not propranolol, is associated with dilatation effects on the arterial circulation of the forearm.