Date - 08 December 2004

Source- Drugs in Context 2004; 1B(12): Nebivolol - Hypertension and cardiovascular disease p477

Author - Dr Eleanor Bull

Nebivolol is a ß1-adrenoceptor blocking drug, or .ß-blocker., distinguished from other members of its drug class by its additional nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilatory effects. Consequently, as well as effectively lowering blood pressure by blocking ß1-adreoceptors in the heart and vasculature, nebivolol may also slow or prevent some of the vascular complications associated with hypertension, by improving arterial compliance and reducing peripheral vascular resistance. In clinical trials, nebivolol elicits a significant and sustained reduction in blood pressure, which is comparable with that produced by alternative antihypertensives (e.g. atenolol, bisoprolol, enalapril, lisinopril and nifedipine). The percentage of patients responding to nebivolol treatment is similar in magnitude to the response rates observed with other blood pressure-lowering drugs. Nebivolol also significantly reduces heart rate without impairing maximal exercise tolerance. Well tolerated, during both short- and long-term administration, nebivolol can be administered to a number of patient groups, including the elderly and those with diabetes.

Keywords: Nebivolol, Hypertension and cardiovascular disease