Adrenaline may increase noradrenaline release and enhance sympathetic pressor effects through activation of pre-synaptic beta 2-adrenoceptors. Conversely, blockade of beta 2-receptors could lead to a fall in blood pressure. To test this hypothesis we performed a double-blind placebo controlled crossover study in nine patients with mild hypertension, comparing the effects of the beta 2-selective blocker ICI 118,551, 50 mg t.i.d. with those of propranolol, 80 mg t.i.d. Two hours after the first dose of ICI 118,551 or propranolol, plasma noradrenaline and blood pressure remained unchanged while heart rate and renin were reduced. After 1 week, blood pressure was significantly reduced by both drugs. The beta 2-selectivity of ICI 118,551 was confirmed by isoprenaline infusion studies. After 1 week of treatment ICI 118,551 had no effect on the beta 1-receptor mediated shortening of electromechanical systole (QS2I), the rise in systolic pressure and rise in renin, whereas these responses were blocked by a dose factor of eight after propranolol. ICI 118,551 and propranolol equally blocked the beta 2-receptor mediated fall in diastolic pressure and the rise in noradrenaline. We conclude that beta 2-selective blockade by ICI 118,551 lowers blood pressure. This finding is compatible with a role of pre-synaptic beta 2-receptors in blood pressure control.