Treatment of hypertension in the elderly with labetalol.

The response of elderly hypertensive patients to labetalol, possessing alpha- and beta-blocking properties, was studied. The dosage was first titrated out and assessed in a double-blind cross-over trial. Altogether 24 patients were treated for one year. The dosage established during the titration period maintained its efficacy. In most cases 200 mg labetalol daily gave satisfactory result. The side-effects were few. The only reason for discontinuance of the drug was gastrointestinal discomfort. Because of the low dosage, the typical side-effects of beta-blockade were lacking and alpha-blockade seemed to be well tolerated. The normal precautions in the treatment of elderly hypertensive patients should be observed.