Effects of mefruside treatment in hypertension.

Fifty-two middle-aged patients with essential hypertension were treated for five months with 25 mg mefruside as the only antihypertensive drug. Blood pressure, heart rate, fasting blood glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid, electrolytes and weight were controlled regularly before and during treatment. Blood pressure normalized in 43 cases (82.7%). The decrease was more marked in the females and their maximal response appeared later. No significant changes were seen in cholesterol and triglycerides. Serum uric acid levels increased significantly in both sexes (p < 0.001) but no patient developed gout. A significant decrease (p < 0.001) in serum potassium was seen; only one male, with heredity for diabetes mellitus, showed a decreased glucose tolerance.