Guanfacine alone and in combination therapy in the treatment of moderate and severe hypertension.

This study of guanfacine in 27 patients suffering from moderate-to-severe hypertension showed a satisfactory blood pressure control in 26 patients. Twenty-one of the 27 patients completed a one-year clinical trial with good blood pressure response. The new drugs, acting through the stimulation of the central alpha-adrenoceptors, are useful in patients suffering from moderate-to-severe hypertension. They are a good alternative to adrenergic neuron-blocking drugs, methyldopa, or beta-blockers, and useful in patients with refractory hypertension where conventional therapy has failed.