[The effect of the beta 1 selective beta blocker, betaxolol, on metabolism in type II diabetics].

The effects of the highly beta 1-selective beta-blocker betaxolol (Kerlone) on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in type II diabetic subjects were compared in a cross over study with those of a diuretic (xipamide-triamterene combination, Neotri). Betaxolol significantly lowered blood pressure with a tendency to better efficacy than the diuretic. The betaxolol-induced decrease in heart rate could be a contributing factor in attenuating the progression of atherosclerosis. No significant alterations were observed in postprandial blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin and 24-h urinary glucose excretion. The lack of noticeable influence on the carbohydrate metabolism during 4-week therapy is presumably related to the high beta 1-selectivity of betaxolol. Considering that diabetic hypertensive patients are at high risk for atherosclerosis it appears also favourable that betaxolol did not increase triglyceride levels and even decreased total cholesterol. The protective effect of beta-Blockers has been well established in the secondary and primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Especially diabetic patients might be expected to benefit from this therapy, if given preferably as beta 1-selective blocker that impairs carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in lesser extent.