[Betacap efficiency in elderly patients with coronary heart disease and essential hypertension].

AIM

To assess the efficacy of long-acting propranolol in elderly patients with essential hypertension (EH) and coronary disease (CD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen patients (mean age 60 years) with EH and CD were examined using ECG and echoCG, chest rheoplethysmography, Holter ECG monitoring, and exercise test. Betacap was administered once a day in doses 40 or 80 mg at 10.00 or 13.00.

RESULTS

The drug exerted an antianginal and hypotensive effect. Energy expenditures of the myocardium decreased and exercise tolerance improved; the drug was more effective in patients with the hyperkinetic circulation and if taken at 10.00.

CONCLUSION

Betacap is an effective antianginal and hypotensive agent, recommended for therapy of elderly patients with EH and CD.