New Beta-Blocker Approved for Hypertension

Nebivolol (Bystolic), a selective beta-1-adrenoreceptor blocker with vasodilating effects, has been approved to treat hypertension, the FDA announced on Monday.

In four placebo-controlled trials, over 2000 patients received nebivolol, and researchers found that its efficacy was similar to that of other beta-blockers. In one of the trials, patients with inadequate blood pressure control who were using up to two other antihypertensive drugs saw their BP drop after taking nebivolol.

Some patients given nebivolol reported headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and diarrhea.