The conference focussed on nutritional influences on sympathetic nervous system activity in man and experimental animals. Consequences of a prolonged sympathetic activity were described for the integrity of the cardiovascular system. In accordance with the aims of the ISMNT, drug interventions were discussed which provide a novel approach for patients suffering from an excess sympathetic outflow of the brain.

A second generation of antihypertensive drugs were presented which reduce sympathetic outflow of the brain and are characterized by greatly reduced side effects. The proceedings of the meeting are published as supplement of Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy 1996;10: 215-289 The Excess Catecholamine Syndrome. From Cause to Therapy