Current role of beta-blockers in the treatment of hypertension

Abstract

Since the production of propranolol, which was the first beta blocker, the effects on cardiovascular system have helped in understanding and further combating hypertension. With the recent development of 3rd generation beta blockers which have the additional effects of significantly reducing peripheral vascular resistance done by the alpha 1 blocking property, nebivolol and carvedilol demonstrated an excellent effect on improving the survival rate in patients with hypertension, angina and congestive heart failure. This promising property is yet to be further studied; hence a better control of hypertension with beta blockers can be expected in the upcoming near future.