An Active-controlled, Clinical Trial to Assess Central Hemodynamic Effects of Bisoprolol in Hypertensive Patients (Central Hemodynamic Assessment Measured in Patient With HypertensION [CHAMPION])

Central pulse pressure is a better predictor of left ventricular mass and carotid intima thickness, and the conventional peripheral BP does not seem to be an accurate reflection of central arterial BP. The pulse pressure amplification between peripheral and central arteries reflects the left ventricular afterload, subendothelial viability, and the intensity of cyclic stress imposed to the renal and cerebral micro- and macro vessels. As central hemodynamic parameters are independently associated with organ damage and are closely related to important cardiovascular outcome, it is suggested that the new clinical trials on antihypertensive drug treatment should compare simultaneously the chronic effect of drugs on both peripheral and central BP. OBJECTIVES Primary objective: * To assess the effect of bisoprolol versus atenolol on the aortic pulse pressure as a central hemodynamic index in subjects with hypertension Secondary objectives: * To assess the effect of bisoprolol versus atenolol on the aortic BP as a central hemodynamic index in subjects with hypertension * To assess the effect of bisoprolol versus atenolol on the AIx and cfPWV as arterial stiffness indexes in subjects with hypertension * To assess the effect of bisoprolol versus atenolol on the aortic pulse pressure as a central hemodynamic index at interim visit (Visit 4) * To assess the effect of bisoprolol versus atenolol on the lipid profile and serum glucose as metabolism indexes * To assess the effect of bisoprolol versus atenolol on the brachial BP as a peripheral BP index in subjects with hypertension * To assess the safety and tolerability of bisoprolol versus atenolol in subjects with hypertension The present study will be approximately of 14 weeks duration comprising of 1 week screening, followed by a 12 weeks treatment period and a 2 weeks post study follow up contact conducted via telephone to monitor additional serious adverse experiences. There will be 4 scheduled visits (at Day -7, Day 0, Week 4 and Week 12). After screening period in which eligibility criteria were confirmed, subjects with hypertension will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive treatment with either bisoprolol or atenolol. Hemodynamic measurements will be made at baseline, Week 4, Week 12 and biochemical measurements will be made at baseline (Day 0) and at Week 12.