ABSTRACT
AIM: To assess the efficacy of long-acting propranolol in elderly patients with essential hypertension (EH) and coronary disease (CD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen patients (mean age 60 years) with EH and CD were examined using ECG and echoCG, chest rheoplethysmography, Holter ECG monitoring, and exercise test. Betacap was administered once a day in doses 40 or 80 mg at 10.00 or 13.00. RESULTS: The drug exerted an antianginal and hypotensive effect. Energy expenditures of the myocardium decreased and exercise tolerance improved; the drug was more effective in patients with the hyperkinetic circulation and if taken at 10.00. CONCLUSION: Betacap is an effective antianginal and hypotensive agent, recommended for therapy of elderly patients with EH and CD.
