Beta-Adrenergic Blockers’ Supportive and Adverse Role in Hypertension: A Review of Three Generations

Beta-adrenergic blockers role in hypertension

Abstract

Hypertension causes significant mortality and morbidity around the world. The β-adrenergic blockers are one of the most commonly prescribed hypertension medications. Several β-adrenergic blockers with different pharmacological qualities have been developed, which may be grouped into three generations based on the differences in pharmacological properties. In this narrative review, we addressed evidence-based literature about the role of various types of β-blockers and related adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in hypertension. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE are used for articles search. The title was examined first, followed by the abstract, and then the entire study. We concluded that the first-generation β-blockers are non-selective and used as antihypertensive however, not recommended for diabetic, asthmatic, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. The second-generation β-blockers are β1 receptor-selective which are the effective pharmacological option for the treatment of hypertension, with a lower risk of adverse effects associated with antagonism of β2-receptor. Third-generation β-blockers showed improved effects on patients as compared to the previous two generations. This class of β-blockers (labetalol, carvedilol, and nebivolol) has vasodilatory abilities and has an extra beneficial influence with fewer ADRs. However, the effectiveness and benefit of β-blockers as first‐line therapy for hypertension is still controversial. As a result, further accurate screenings, as well as large randomized control clinical trials (RCTs), are needed to investigate the role of all β-blockers in hypertension.

Keywords: Hypertension; Beta-Adrenergic Blockers; Blood Pressure; Literature Review.