Effects of beta-adrenergic blockade with pindolol versus placebo in coronary patients with stable angina pectoris.

The effect of pindolol, a new beta-blocking agent, was evaluated in 12 patients with proven coronary disease (CAD) and angina pectoris. Evaluation was done using a double-blind crossover technique comparing pindolol at both 15 mg/day and 30 mg/day to placebo. Compared with placebo, pindolol slightly decreased the number of anginal episodes and nitroglycerin pills consumed while showing evidence of beta blockade during exercise. However, we could not demonstrate any effect on exercise endurance on the treadmill at either dose. Pindolol shows a modest beneficial effect on ischemic manifestations in CAD patients with angina pectoris.