Changes in renal function induced by long term treatment with bisoprolol, compared to other beta-adrenocepter blockers

ABSTRACT

The effect of long term treatment with bisoprolol, a new cardioselective beta-adrenoceptor blocker on some kidney function tests in the rat was studied and compared to atenolol and propranolol. Results showed that the oral administration of bisoprolol [10 mg/kg] caused a highly significant increase in plasma creatinine by 83% and 88% when measured after 3 and 5 weeks of daily treatment, respectively [P <0.001]. Significant increase [P <0.001] in plasma urea reaching 46% and 53% difference from control values was found when measured after 3 and 5 weeks of daily treatment, respectively. On the other hand, no significant change in plasma creatinine and urea levels were observed after oral daily treatment of rats with atenolol [50 mg/kg] for 1, 3 and 5 weeks. Treatment of rats with propranolol [30 mg/kg] elevated plasma creatinine level insignificantly by 6%, 24% and 25% when measured after 1, 3 and 5 weeks, respectively [P >0.05]. This was accompanied by minimal changes in plasma urea. All three beta-blockers tested, had no significant effect on total plasma proteins. Results showed that beta-adrenoceptor blockers produce changes in the kidney function regardless of their cardioselectivity. The possible mechanisms of action by which bisoprolol induced such changes were discussed