Metoprolol in portal hypertension. A controlled study.

In a controlled trial, the effect of the beta 1-selective blocking agent metoprolol on cirrhotic portal hypertension was investigated. A sustained reduction of portal pressure was observed in 60% of the treated patients after 1 and 2 months. No correlation between changes of portal pressure and cardiac output was established. This may indicate a direct action of beta-blocking substances on the splanchnic vascular system. The results suggest that treatment with metoprolol may be of value in patients with portal hypertension secondary to cirrhosis of the liver. However, to eliminate non-responders the pressure has to be measured repeatedly.