A toxicological review of beta-adrenergic blockers.

The use of various beta-adrenergic blockers has become extensive as they have been found to be efficacious in the treatment of a number of cardiovascular problems including cardiac arrhythmias, angina pectoris, and hypertension. The widespread and chronic use of these drugs has generated a concern for their potential chronic toxicity. Eighteen beta-adrenergic blockers have been reviewed and the available literature pertaining to their potential carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and teratogenicity has been summarized and compared.