Effect of diuretic, beta‐adrenoceptor blocking agent and their combination on elevated blood pressure and serum potassium: a cross‐ over study.

Abstract

1. The antihypertensive effect of a new beta‐adrenoceptor blocking agent, trimepranol (10–14 mg/twice daily), chlorthalidone (50 mg every second day) and their combination was studied in eighteen patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension. In a controlled randomized cross‐over study the drugs were given for 6 week periods. 2. A significant and equal decrease in blood pressure was achieved both with trimepranol and chlorthalidone, whereas their combination was significantly more effective. 3. Trimepranol significantly antagonized the chlorthalidone‐induced hypokalemia. 4. The results favor the use of diuretic or diuretic‐beta‐adrenoceptor blocker combination over beta‐ adrenoceptor blocker monotherapy in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension.