Plasma renin activity, arterial blood pressure and response to beta-adrenergic blockade: a non-demostrated correlation. Practical view points
Ocón Pujadas, J.; Merello, J.I.
Medicina Clinica 75(5): 190-195
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0025-7753 PMID: 6999249 Document Number: 155572
Patients (19) were treated with timolol maleate (a non-selective .beta.-blocker) and the decrease of their arterial blood pressure was correlated with the suppression of renin secretion. Patients which controlled their arterial pressure (63%) as well as those who did not (37%) showed a significant decrease of the plasma renin. Patients diagnosed with essential hypertension, and normal renal function are formed an homogenous group. The Na intake was similar in all of them. Although the .beta.-blocker can act in hypertensive patients through the suppression of the renin angiotensin system, this is not the only factor for arterial pressure maintenance, nor is it the only mode of action. The possibility of ARP stimulation by walking, in spite of .beta.-blocking, means that this is not a total blocking, or that there are other factors regulating the ARP secretion, and that act together with the autonomic nervous system.