From the Research
Ketanserin is a viable treatment option for hypertension, particularly in the elderly, due to its ability to lower blood pressure and improve symptoms related to peripheral circulatory disturbances, as evidenced by studies such as 1.
Key Points
- Ketanserin is a selective serotonin receptor antagonist that primarily blocks 5-HT2A receptors, developed as an antihypertensive medication.
- It works by blocking serotonin's vasoconstrictive effects, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.
- The medication is typically taken in oral tablet form with dosages ranging from 20-40 mg once or twice daily for hypertension management.
- Ketanserin has been investigated for treating conditions like Raynaud's phenomenon, peripheral vascular disease, and certain psychiatric disorders.
- Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and headache, and it should be used cautiously in patients with liver or kidney impairment.
- The medication may interact with other medications that affect serotonin levels or QT interval-prolonging drugs, as noted in studies such as 2.
Clinical Use
- Ketanserin has been shown to be effective in controlling high blood pressure in the elderly, with studies such as 1 demonstrating its efficacy in this population.
- The medication has also been found to improve symptoms related to peripheral circulatory disturbances, making it a useful treatment option for patients with these conditions.
- While ketanserin has been largely replaced by newer antihypertensive medications in many clinical settings, it remains available in some countries for specific indications, as discussed in 3.
Important Considerations
- Patients taking ketanserin should be monitored for potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
- Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with liver or kidney impairment.
- Ketanserin's antihypertensive effects have been compared to those of other medications, such as beta-blockers and diuretics, in studies such as 4 and 3.