Antihypertensive and biochemical effects of the dihydropyridine felodipine in the long term treatment of moderate to severe hypertension.

Abstract

Twenty-seven patients with severe hypertension, in 19 cases accompanied by renal failure, were treated with felodipine, a new dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, 23 patients completed a 24-week, and 19 a 48-week follow-up. At the end of the follow-up, felodipine was given in combination with a β-adrenoceptor blocking drug in most instances (80%), but in 60% of the cases no diuretic was needed. Antihypertensive treatment with felodipine caused a 25% reduction in blood pressure, which was sustained throughout follow-up. The drug was well tolerated and was as effective in patients with renal insufficiency as in patients with normal renal function. Plasma creatinine levels remained stable throughout follow-up. Plasma calcium levels rose during felodipine therapy. This finding could not be related to the change in blood pressure or to the use of thiazide diuretics. The data confirm the potency of felodipine in the long term treatment of hypertension.