The effect of pindolol, a beta-receptor blocking agent, in heart rate and blood-pressure during submaximal and maximal exercise

Summary

The effect of a new beta-receptor blocking agent, 4-2 (2-hydroxy-3-isopropylaminopropoxy)-indole, pindolol (Viskén^®), was investigated in patients with essential hypertension of WHO grades I–II. Maximal and submaximal working capacity tests were done before and during treatment in 30 patients. 15 patients underwent a double-blind cross-over trial with placebo; and a further 15 patients were examined in an open study including a multiscaled working capacity test. The work tests were performed on a bicycle ergometer with increasing loads. The ECG was recorded continuously, and the blood-pressure was measured with a cuff. — In both groups the heart rate and systolic blood-pressure decreased significantly during treatment with Viskén, both at rest and during exercise. The resting and post-exercise diastolic blood-pressures were also significantly reduced after beta-receptor blockade with Viskén. No ECG signs of myocardial ischemia were found. The work capacity tests showed a slight reduction, of about 100 kpm/min, in four patients, whilst three improved their maximal working capacity.