Antihypertensive mode of action of ketanserin.

The mechanism of blood pressure reduction by ketanserin in hypertensive patients is still not fully understood. It can occur in the absence of evident alpha 1-adrenergic blockade. However, particularly with prolonged therapy, features of alpha 1 blockade appear. There are both similarities and differences between the pattern of effects caused by ketanserin and prazosin. A central mode of action of ketanserin contributing to the blood pressure reduction is not excluded. It appears unlikely, however, that inhibition of aldosterone secretion makes a substantial contribution to the antihypertensive effect of ketanserin in humans.