Results of therapy with carvedilol, a beta-blocker vasodilator with antioxidant properties, in hypertensive patients.

Carvedilol is a new beta-blocker antihypertensive agent with vasodilating properties secondary to alpha 1-blocking activity. Peripheral vascular resistance is reduced and cardiac output and renal function are not altered with carvedilol. The antihypertensive effects of this agent are equivalent to those of other beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, and diuretics. Carvedilol has a neutral effect on lipids and glucose metabolism. The percentage of responders is increased when carvedilol is combined with a diuretic. This agent has several unique properties. In addition to its antihypertensive effects, carvedilol in vitro and in vivo has been shown to have antiproliferative effects on smooth muscle cells and to inhibit the action of oxygen-free radicals. The antioxidant properties of this compound are significantly greater than those of vitamin E. In animal models, carvedilol may slow the process of atherogenesis, reduce infarct size, and improve postinfarction survival to a greater degree than other beta-blockers. Recent studies have demonstrated that carvedilol reduces morbidity and mortality in patients with congestive heart failure who are already receiving angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics, and digitalis. The antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of carvedilol may present an advantage over other available antihypertensive medications.