Potential use of DA1 and DA2 receptor agonists in the treatment of hypertension.

Will dopamine (DA) agonists have a role in the treatment of hypertension? Recent advances of medicinal chemistry and receptor pharmacology have suggested a positive answer. First, the division of DA receptors into two subtypes, DA1 and DA2, and the differentiation of these receptors from other receptors have resulted in the synthesis of relatively selective agonists and antagonists. Second, agonists of DA1 and DA2 receptors have been shown to decrease blood pressure in experimental animals and hypertensive patients. Review of clinical data with DA1, DA2, and combination of DA1 and DA2 agonists not only has demonstrated efficacy, but has revealed problems in the use of these compounds. Finally, possible solutions of these problems will be discussed.