Comparison of oxyfedrine and atenolol in angina pectoris--a double-blind study.

We have compared oxyfedrine 24 mg four times daily with atenolol 100 mg once daily in the relief of angina pectoris in a double-blind cross-over study; assessments were by diary cards and treadmill testing. Both oxyfedrine and atenolol reduced the frequency of angina by similar amounts and both produced similar improvements in treadmill performance. Side effects were infrequent and minor with both drugs. The model of action of oxyfedrine appears to be different from atenolol. Oxyfedrine allows the double product of systolic blood pressure X heart rate at peak exercise to be maintained at levels similar to those with placebo; the double product at peak exercise is significantly less with atenolol.