[Long term comparison between atenolol and a depot form of propranolol hydrochloride on the heart rate and blood pressure at rest and during physical work in normal subjects].

Atenolol 100 mg and propranolol retard 160 mg were compared by a cross-over trial in 20 male volunteers with respect to their long action on heart rate and blood pressure at rest as well as during ergometric load tests. Both beta-receptor blocking agents showed the following effects 24 h after treatment: 1. The maximal capacity for ergometric load was significantly reduced by atenolol as well as by propranolol retard in comparison to the control. 2. The heart rate was also significantly reduced by both beta-blocking agents after 24 h. 3. The systolic blood pressure during ergometric load as well as the diastolic blood pressure at rest showed significantly lower values 24 h after treatment with both agents.