BETA-BLOCKADE IN THE PRIMARY PREVENTION OF HYPERTENSIVE CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS WITH FOCUS ON SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH

Beta-adrenergic blocking agents are useful drugs in the treatment of h ypertension. In multiple clinical trials, beta blockers have been foun d to decrease the incidence of stroke and overall cardiovascular morta lity. To provide maximal benefit, in particular, to blunt the early-mo rning surge in blood pressure associated with the increased circadian incidence of sudden cardiac death, the more cardioselective and longer -acting agents of this drug class are preferred. (C) 1997 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.