[Action of betaxolol on ventricular arrhythmias. Control of efficacy and tolerance by repetitive Holter recordings].

The ventricular anti-arrhythmic action of 20 mg of betaxolol per day was evaluated in 14 patients treated in monotherapy for a fortnight, by means of repeated Holter recordings. A significant decrease in the number of ischemic ventricular extrasystoles was observed during the diurnal and nocturnal periods. Repetitive ventricular events were also reduced. Betaxolol therefore appears to have a direct anti-arrhythmic action which is not related to its action on the heart rate. The other effects of beta-blocker treatment were also observed: a decrease in the systolic and diastolic blood pressure and sinus bradycardia.