Double-blind cross-over clinical trial of acebutolol and propranolol in mild to moderate essential hypertension.

Twenty patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension completed this double-blind cross-over randomized clinical trial of propranolol and acebutolol. Acebutolol was found to be as effective and safe as propranolol in lowering the systolic and diastolic blood pressure both in supine as well as in standing positions. However, the difference between the two drugs was not statistically significant. No significant change was produced in serum electrolytes, uric acid, fasting blood sugar with either drug. The accepted dose ratio of 1:2.5 propranolol and acebutolol, respectively, was found to be true only in 50% of the patients. Therefore, for optimal effect, the dose of acebutolol should be individualized depending upon the response.