This document provides a summary of a presentation on the role of beta-blockers in hypertension. It begins with an introduction that defines beta-blockers and their uses, particularly for hypertension. It then discusses the classification, properties, mechanisms of action, and pharmacokinetics of various beta-blockers. The document reviews several important trials that have compared beta-blockers to other antihypertensive treatments, such as the LIFE study and ASCOT study, which questioned the benefits of beta-blockers compared to other agents. It concludes with a re-evaluation of the use of atenolol as the comparator in the LIFE study.