Hypertension and myocardial infarction.

Because hypertension and myocardial infarction are closely linked in several ways, a better understanding of this relation leads to more effective prophylaxis and management. Management should be directed at three different areas: 1) the prevention of a first myocardial infarction, 2) the prevention of complications after an infarction, and 3) the management of hypertension during evolution of an acute infarction. There is good evidence that beta-receptor blocking agents are beneficial to long-term management. When therapy is required in the acute situation, arteriolar vasodilators are to be avoided and combined arteriolar/venular dilators are the drugs of choice.