Acute hemodynamic effects of celiprolol.

Beta-adrenoceptor blockade is an effective treatment for ischemic heart disease and hypertension, but the more widespread use of beta antagonists is limited by their bronchoconstrictor, vasoconstrictor and negative inotropic properties. Celiprolol has been shown in preclinical studies to be a beta 1-selective antagonist with bronchosparing and vasodilating properties, but without any cardiodepressant effect. This has been confirmed by clinical studies undertaken to date. The aim of the present study was to examine the acute effects of intravenous celiprolol on the cardiac hemodynamics of patients pretreated with oral atenolol.