Long-term renal hemodynamic effects of nadolol in patients with essential hypertension.

Renal and systemic hemodynamic effects of nadolol, a nonselective beta-adrenergic-blocking agent, were determined over a 2-year period in eight patients with essential hypertension. Arterial pressure and heart rate remained significantly reduced for the full 2 years in all eight patients. Renal blood flow and plasma volume remained unchanged, and renal vascular resistance significantly decreased. Serum creatinine levels decreased from pretreatment values, suggesting improved glomerular filtration rates. These data demonstrate the favorable renal hemodynamic effects of nadolol monotherapy in patients with uncomplicated essential hypertension during a prolonged treatment program.