Effects of adrenoceptor-blocking drugs on plasma lipoprotein concentrations.

Evidence from numerous clinical trials has indicated that beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents without intrinsic sympathomimetic activity increase plasma triglycerides and decrease high density lipoprotein cholesterol in patients with hypertension or coronary artery disease. There appears to be little or no difference between the nonselective and cardioselective drugs in this regard. In contrast, beta blockers with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity and alpha 1 blockers appear not to have these effects. The changes induced by adrenoceptor-blocking agents in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and their possible significance in relation to the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease are discussed.