Guanabenz (Wytensin)(Sympatholytic)    
  • Guanabenz (Wytensin)acts in the brain, inhibiting adrenergic outflow from the brainstem.
    •  Inhibition of sympathetic outflow results in a decrease in blood pressure.
  • Guanabenz (Wytensin) reduces cardiac output (by reducing both stroke volume and heart rate) and decreases peripheral resistance.
    •  Reduction in stoke volume occurs due to increased venous pooling (decreased preload).
  • Guanabenz (Wytensin) does not interfere with cardiovascular responses to exercise.
  • Renal blood flow and function is maintained during guanabenz (Wytensin) treatment.
  • Guanabenz (Wytensin) has minimal or no effect on plasma lipids.
 

 Adverse Effects

  • Dry Mouth (xerostomia)
  • Bradycardia (in patients with SA nodal abnormality)
  • Withdrawal syndrome upon abrupt discontinuation (increased blood pressure, headache, tachycardia, apprehension, tremors)