Penbutolol, a new non-selective beta-adrenergic blocking compound in the treatment of hypertension. A comparision with propranolol.

The antihypertensive effect of a new non-selective beta-adrenergic blocking compound, penbutolol (40 mg b.i.d.), was compared with propranolol (160 mg b.i.d.) in a series of 20 hypertensive patients using a double-blind cross-over scheme. Both compounds reduced both the supine and the standing blood pressure significantly. The magnitude of the responses did not differ significantly and both compounds evoked a commensurate decrease in heart rate. No significant side-effects were noted and a series of laboratory tests did not disclose any biochemical changes.