The effect of atenolol (B- blocker) on salivary composition in patients with essential hypertension

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: saliva play an important role in maintaining oral health, it is important to dentist as well as physician. The aim of the study was to examine the salivary flow rate and composition in patients with essential hypertension before and after treatment with Atenolol
Materials and methods:.48 patients with hypertension were examined in Ramadi General Hospital, from October 2001 till October 2003
Results: The hypertensive patients were characterized by lower salivary flow rate and significantly elevated levels of proteins, potassium and phosphate.
Conclusions: This might relate to chronic adrenergic over stimulation of the salivary glands in hypertensive patients. Salivary sodium, calcium and magnesium concentrations were similar in both groups. Atenolol increased the salivary flow rate and lower the phosphate but had no effect on protein and on potassium concentrations.
Key word: Salivary composition, salivary gland, hypertension. (J Bagh Coll Dentistry 2006; 18(3)57-59)