Abstract
• Oral propranolol hydrochloride, 40 mg twice a day, and acetazolamide, 250 mg twice a day, were given in a randomized, double-masked, cross-over manner to eight patients with ocular hypertension. Each compound was given for eight weeks. Propranolol and acetazolamide produced a comparable decrease in intraocular pressure. Acetazolamide showed a clear orthostatic effect by significantly decreasing the standing systolic blood pressure (BP), while propranolol, at the doses used, had no obvious reducing effect on BP. Propranolol significantly decreased the pulse rate throughout the treatment period; acetazolamide also decreased the pulse rate, though slightly and not significantly. During treatment with acetazolamide a metabolic acidosis reflected by a decrease in the serum-CO<sub>2</sub>combining power developed in five patients; this index remained unchanged during treatment with propranolol. Serum calcium, potassium, and sodium levels were not affected by propranolol or acetazolamide therapy.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
