Combination therapy for hypertension management: insights from the Indian experts

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) pose a significant global health challenge, with India bearing a disproportionate burden of CVD-related morbidity and mortality. Hypertension (HTN) is a major risk factor for CVDs, affecting nearly 30% of the Indian population. Achieving target blood pressure (BP) levels is crucial for reducing cardiovascular risk, necessitating aggressive antihypertensive therapy. Combination therapy has emerged as a cornerstone in HTN management, especially in high-risk patients. This review delves into the literature and perspectives of Indian cardiologists on combination therapy for HTN management. Despite the efficacy of contemporary antihypertensive medications, a substantial proportion of patients fail to reach target BP levels with monotherapy. Combination therapy offers synergistic effects, addressing multiple pathways involved in HTN pathogenesis. Recent guidelines recommend initiating treatment with two-drug combinations, transitioning to three-drug combinations in resistant cases. Combination therapy not only enhances BP control but also reduces the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality compared to monotherapy. Optimal management of HTN requires personalized approaches, considering individual patient profiles and comorbidities such as coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes mellitus (DM), dyslipidemia, and heart failure (HF). In such cases, combination therapy plays a pivotal role in mitigating cardiovascular risks. ARB/CCB combination therapy, particularly telmisartan/amlodipine, demonstrates significant efficacy and tolerability across various patient populations, including those with metabolic risk factors and renal impairment. Expert recommendations highlight the importance of individualized therapy, patient education, early diagnosis, and initiation with dual therapy in India. Strategies to improve medication adherence and compliance, such as single-pill double or triple combinations, are emphasized. Moreover, awareness of newer treatment options and contactless diagnostic instruments is crucial for optimizing HTN management. In conclusion, combination therapy stands as a cornerstone in HTN management, offering enhanced efficacy, tolerability, and cardiovascular protection. Tailored approaches guided by expert recommendations are essential to address the growing burden of HTN and reduce the socioeconomic impact of CVDs in India.