Comparison of Blood Pressure Medications on Metabolism

Overview

The purpose of this study is to determine if there are differences, (benefits) between carvedilol and metoprolol in the treatment of HTN in patients with type 2 diabetes. Specifically we will be looking at differences in blood pressure and blood sugar control, endothelial function, inflammation, oxidative stress and coagulation. Subjects will be randomized to one of the two beta-blockers and followed for 5 months. Each subject will undergo 4 inpatient studies where an oral glucose tolerance test will be done, Inflammatory and oxidative stress markers will be measured. Endothelial function will be measured using brachial artery ultrasound and laser skin Doppler

The purpose of this study is to determine if there are differences, (benefits) between carvedilol and metoprolol in the treatment of HTN in patients with type 2 diabetes. Specifically we will be looking at differences in blood pressure and blood sugar control, endothelial function, inflammation, oxidative stress and coagulation. Subjects will be randomized to one of the two beta-blockers and followed for 5 months. Each subject will undergo 4 inpatient studies where an oral glucose tolerance test will be done, Inflammatory and oxidative stress markers will be measured. Endothelial function will be measured using brachial artery ultrasound and laser skin Doppler. Baseline visit will be done when subjects are off all antihypertension medications except ACEI/ARB. Following the baseline study subjects will be randomized to study drug. The dose will be titrated until goal blood pressure is reached. Add on medication will be used if needed. Subjects will then undergo a second study. The third study will take place after 5 months on treatment. Stud drug will then be stoppped and subjects will be restudied 2 weeks later