The effects of labetalol and oxprenolol on blood lipids.

Abstract

Since a high risk of coronary heart disease is associated with high serum total cholesterol levels and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, the effects of labetalol (Trandate; Allen & Hanburys) and oxprenolol (Trasicor; Ciba-Geigy) on blood lipids were studied. Eight normal volunteers, mean age 25,8 years, were involved in a randomized cross-over trial; all received each of the drugs for a 3-week period, separated by a wash-out period of 1 week. Both labetalol and oxprenolol reduced total serum cholesterol levels; these changes are statistically highly significant; Since the drugs had no significant effect on HDL cholesterol levels, the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol was significantly decreased. Changes in triglyceride levels after both labetalol and oxprenolol administration were slight and did not reach statistical significance. The alpha-blockade caused by labetalol does no materially affect changes in blood lipid values brought about by beta-blockade. This study does not support previous reports, which have directed attention towards the possibility that, owing to alterations in lipid transport, adrenergic blocking agents might accelerate atherogenesis.