Ketanserin: a new hypotensive drug?

The possible use of ketanserin for the chronic treatment of patients with essential hypertension was discussed based on the data exposed at this symposium. Its hypotensive effect is established during placebo controlled trials, but more data are needed to determine its relative potency compared to standard hypotensive drugs. The drug seems to act by reducing systemic vascular resistance, but the relative role of the serotonin and alpha inhibition in the chronic hypotensive effect in man is not yet known. Subjective side effects occur after the first dose, but seem to be less frequent during chronic treatment; organ toxicity has not been reported in the therapeutic doses. The drug could be particularly indicated in elderly hypertensive patients, especially in those with peripheral vascular disease. The influence on morbidity and mortality is not yet known.