• The antihypertensive effect of four β-blocking agents given once daily was compared with that of placebo in a prospective, crossover, double-blind study of 150 patients. The preparations tested were slow-release propranolol hydrochloride, 160 mg, atenolol, 100 mg, slow-release oxprenolol hydrochloride, 160 mg, and metoprolol, 200 mg. Propranolol and atenolol produced a significant decline in lying, standing, and postexercise blood pressure and pulse rate values. The effects of oxprenolol and metoprolol were not significantly different from that of placebo.
(Arch Intern Med 1985;145:1321-1323)