Baseline Systolic Blood Pressure Research Articles

Factors Influencing Nerinetide Effect on Infarct Volume in Patients Without Alteplase in the Randomized ESCAPE-NA1 Trial.

In the ESCAPE-NA1 trial (Efficacy and Safety of Nerinetide for the Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke), treatment with nerinetide was associated with a smaller infarct volume among patients who did not receive intravenous alteplase. We assessed the effect of nerinetide on the surrogate imaging outcome of final infarct volume in patients who did not receive intravenous alteplase and explored predictors of outcome and modifiers of nerinetide's effect on infarct volume. ESCAPE-NA1 was a multicenter, randomized trial in which patients with acute stroke with a baseline Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score >4, undergoing endovascular thrombectomy, were randomized to receive intravenous nerinetide or placebo. Patients not receiving intravenous alteplase were included in this post hoc secondary analysis of the trial data. Final infarct volume was manually segmented on 24-hour noncontrast computed tomography or diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Predictors of final infarct volume were identified using multivariable linear regression with cubic-root-transformed infarct volume as the dependent variable. Evidence of treatment-by-predictor interaction was tested by including interaction terms in the model. Four hundred forty-six patients (219 who received nerinetide and 227 who received a placebo) out of a total of 1105 enrolled patients were included in this secondary post hoc analysis of the randomized ESCAPE-NA1 trial. Nerinetide was a strong predictor of smaller infarct volume (adjusted β coefficient, -0.35 [95% CI, -0.67 to -0.02]). Other predictors of smaller infarct volume were history of hypertension, good pial collateral filling on multiphase computed tomography angiography, a middle cerebral artery occlusion compared with an internal carotid artery occlusion, lower baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, lower baseline systolic blood pressure, lower baseline serum glucose, shorter onset-to-randomization time, and higher Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score. There was evidence of a treatment-by-systolic blood pressure and treatment-by-anesthesia interaction: nerinetide attenuated the negative effects of elevated baseline (Pinteraction=0.02) and postdose (Pinteraction=0.04) systolic blood pressure and use of general anesthesia (Pinteraction=0.06) on final infarct volume. We observed a marginally significant interaction with reperfusion status, such that nerinetide may attenuate the harmful effect of poor reperfusion status on infarct volume (Pinteraction=0.08). Nerinetide treatment was strongly associated with smaller final infarct volumes among patients not cotreated with alteplase. The reduction in infarct volume was greater among patients with poor prognostic factors. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02930018.

Association of Duration of Recognized Hypertension and Stroke Risk: The REGARDS Study.

The focus for reducing hypertension-related cardiovascular disease is the management of blood pressure. Limited data are available on the potential benefit of delaying the onset of hypertension. Stroke-free Black and White participants from the REGARDS cohort study (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke; recruited 2003-2007) were followed through 2022 for incident stroke events. Participants were stratified by duration of recognized hypertension: normotensive (0 years), ≤5 years, 6 to 20 years, or 21+ years. The baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP), the number of classes of antihypertensive medications, and the risk of incident stroke were assessed by duration strata adjusting for demographics, cerebrovascular risk factors, SBP, and use of antihypertensive medications (where appropriate). Of 30 239 study participants, we included 27 310 participants (mean age, 65 years; 45% male), followed a median of 12.4 years, during which 1763 incident stroke events occurred. On average, participants with hypertension duration ≤5 years, 6 to 20 years, and 21+ years were taking 1.68 (95% CI, 1.65-1.71), 2.04 (95% CI, 2.01-2.07), and 2.28 (95% CI, 2.25-2.31) classes of antihypertensive medications, respectively. The adjusted mean SBP level was higher with each increasing duration of recognized hypertension (0, ≤5, 6-20, and 21+ years): 123.9 mm Hg (95% CI, 123.3-124.6), 129.7 mm Hg (95% CI, 129.1-130.2), 131.7 mm Hg (95% CI, 130.6-131.5), and 132.6 mm Hg (95% CI, 132.0-133.1). Compared with normotensive individuals, the hazard for incident stroke increased from 1.31 (95% CI, 1.05-1.63) for ≤5 years duration, 1.50 (95% CI, 1.21-1.87) for 6 to 20 years duration, and 1.67 (95% CI, 1.32-2.10) for 21+ years duration. Longer duration of recognized hypertension was associated with more classes of antihypertensive medications, higher mean SBP, and higher stroke risk even after adjustment for age and SBP. Collectively, this suggests that delaying the onset of hypertension could reduce the burden of stroke.

Baseline systolic blood pressure and efficacy of dual antiplatelet in acute ischaemic stroke

ObjectiveSystolic blood pressure (SBP) affects the risk of early neurological deterioration (END). This subgroup analysis of Antiplatelet Therapy in Acute Mild to Moderate Ischemic Stroke (ATAMIS) trial aimed to explore...

Increased Pulse Wave Velocity as a Predictor of Intraoperative Hypotension in Hypertensive Patients Undergoing Spinal Anaesthesia.

To investigate whether intra-operative hypotension could be predicted with pulse wave velocity (PWV) if measured preoperatively. Descriptive analytical study. Place and Duration of the Study: The University Hospital in Turkiye between September 2021 and September 2022. All patients aged 30 years and older, whose physical status was graded as I or II according to the American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) classification, were scheduled for elective lower extremity surgery under spinal anaesthesia (SA). Patients previously diagnosed with hypertension (HT) and/or using antihypertensive medication constituted the HT group, and patients with a preoperative systolic blood pressure (SBP) with a value of <140 mmHg constituted the control group. Arterial stiffness measurements of the patient and control groups were performed using the Oscillo metric device [Mobil-O-Graph]. The SBP and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) values were measured. A 20% or more decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to the baseline SBP indicated spinal anaesthesia-related hypotension (SARH). The PWV was higher in the HT group than the control group (p <0.001). The rates of patients that developed hypotension at the 3rd, 5th, 10th, 20th, and 30th minutes of SA were also higher in the HT group than in the control group (p <0.05). The PWV value was significantly higher in patients with SARH than those without SARH at the 3rd, 5th, 10th, 20th, and 30th minutes after SA (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively). Preoperative PWV may be an effective biomarker in predicting spinal anaesthesia-related hypotension in hypertensive patients. Hypotension, Hypertension, Adult, Haemodynamic, Spinal anaesthesia.

Impact of longitudinal changes in serum uric acid levels and weight gain on new-onset atrial fibrillation—The Nishimura Health Survey: a retrospective cohort study

ObjectiveUric acid (UA) and obesity are significant risk factors for new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF). Based on the pathogenesis mechanisms of new-onset AF involving obesity and UA, it is possible that...

Abstract 4137479: Integrating Ambulatory Care Pharmacists into Value-Based Primary Care: A Scalable Model for Addressing Cardiometabolic Disease

Background: Chronic disease is common, costly, and complicated. In the shift to value-based payment models, interventions to engage patients and improve disease control are necessary to reduce morbidity, mortality, and cost. The use of ambulatory pharmacists has demonstrated improved management of chronic diseases. Traditionally, ambulatory pharmacists are employed by healthcare systems. In this study, we test if integrating ambulatory pharmacists hired, trained, and managed by a retail pharmacy into value-based primary care (VBPC) clinics improves care. Hypothesis: Integrating a Walgreens pharmacist empowered by collaborative drug therapy management agreements (CDTM) into Village Medical (VMD) clinics will improve indicators of chronic disease control. Aims: Improve hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) measurements in patients with hypertension (HTN). Methods: An ambulatory pharmacist was embedded into VMD clinics in Phoenix, Arizona under the supervision of VMD primary care providers via a CDTM. The pharmacist provided education, coaching, and medication management by prescribing and titrating therapies for treating T2D and HTN - enabled by access to pharmacy dispensing data. β was generated from difference-in-differences (DID) analyses with propensity score matched controls. Results: 125 patients had T2D, and 43 patients had HTN in the intervention group with 250 and 86 in the matched control group, respectively. The mean age was 65 years, 54% were female, 2% non-English speaking, and 29% racial/ethnic minorities. The average baseline HbA1c was 9% in the intervention group and 10% in the matched cohort. The average baseline SBP was 146 mmHg in the intervention group and 142 mmHg in the matched cohort. The β in the T2D group was -1.61% (p&lt;0.001) while the β in the HTN group was -10.2 mmHg (p&lt;0.01) for SBP and -2.0 mmHg (p=0.42) for DBP. Conclusion: We saw significant reductions in SBP and HbA1c in the pharmacist-managed group compared with matched controls. These results demonstrate that pharmacist integration into VBPC clinics may improve measures of chronic disease known to be associated with morbidity and mortality.

Cardiovascular disease modifies the relationship between systolic blood pressure and outcomes in people with diabetes

ObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate the influences of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on the relationship between baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) and outcomes in community populations with diabetes. MethodsThis is an observational study of 16,431 community adults with diabetes. The relationship between SBP with major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) and all-cause death were evaluated using multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazard models and restricted cubic spline. ResultsAfter a median follow-up of 3.4 (IQR 2.6, 4.3) years, 2145 (13.1 %) MACE and 1025 (6.2 %) all-cause death occurred. In participants free of CVD, in reference to SBP < 120 mmHg group, the risks for MACE increased as SBP category (120–129, 130–139, and ≥ 140 mmHg) advanced (P-trend < 0.001), and there was a linear relationship (P-nonlinear = 0.75). The risks for all-cause death were lower in SBP of 120–139 mmHg and 140–159 mmHg groups but higher in SBP ≥ 160 mmHg group, and there was a U-shaped relationship (P-nonlinear < 0.001). In participants with existing CVD the relationship between baseline SBP with MACE and all-cause death did not show any specific pattern. ConclusionResults of the current study suggest that the relationship between baseline SBP with MACE and all-cause death varied significantly by baseline CVD status.

Predicting blood pressure response to renal denervation based on a new approach.

Identifying predictors of blood pressure (BP) response to renal denervation (RDN) is crucial for patient selection. According to Wilder's principle, baseline BP predicts BP change after any antihypertensive intervention. Thus, any observed BP change after RDN is the sum of the BP change depending on the baseline BP and the specific BP reduction due to RDN. Based on this concept, we propose a new definition of BP responders. In our center, 148 patients with uncontrolled hypertension underwent RDN, and 24-h ambulatory BP (ABP) was measured at baseline, and 6 months after the procedure. The decrease in 24-h systolic BP (SBP) correlated with baseline SBP (P = <0.001, r = -0.374). We determined the RDN-specific effect by subtracting the predicted SBP decrease from the observed SBP decrease. The cohort was divided into RDN responders, neutral responders, and nonresponders. Our study population had a mean age of 59 ± 10.4 years and was 74% male. The RDN-specific (residual) 24-h ABP decreased by -14.9 ± 6.3/-8.2 ± 3.8 mmHg (responder group), 1.0 ± 3.2/0.2 ± 1.9 mmHg (neutral group), and 14.2 ± 10.4/8.3 ± 3.9 mmHg (nonresponder group) 6 months after RDN. Responders had fewer antihypertensive medications (P = 0.018), higher baseline office heart rate (HR) (P = 0.019), higher 24-h ambulatory HR (P = 0.003), lower BMI (P < 0.038), and absence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) (P = 0.020). Our definition of BP responders to RDN separates baseline BP-related changes from RDN-specific changes. Positive predictors for BP response to RDN include low BMI, fewer antihypertensive medications, high baseline office HR, high 24-h ambulatory HR, and absence of T2D.

Blood Pressure Decreases in Overweight Elderly Individuals on Vitamin D: A Randomized Trial.

Evidence for a beneficial role of vitamin D on blood pressure (BP) outcomes is inconclusive. This work aimed to investigate the effect of 2 doses of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplementation coadministered with calcium on systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Exploratory analyses were conducted from a 1-year, multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT). Total of 221 ambulatory older overweight individuals received calcium dose and oral vitamin D3, at the equivalent of 600 IU/day or 3750 IU/day. SBP and DBP decreased significantly in the overall group, and in the high-dose group at 6 and 12 months. Similar trends were observed in the low-dose group, but did not achieve statistical significance. In participants with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30, SBP decreased significantly in both treatment groups whereas DBP significantly decreased in the high-dose group only. In the subgroups of hypertensive participants (N = 143), there was a decrease in SBP and DBP at 6 and 12 months, with both vitamin D doses and independently of BMI levels. Using multivariate linear mixed models with random effects in the overall group of participants, SBP at 6 and 12 months was significantly predicted by BMI (β = .29; P = .05) and by baseline SBP (β = .16; P < .001), but not by vitamin D treatment dose. Vitamin D and calcium decrease SBP and DBP in overweight older individuals, but more is not necessarily better. This effect is seen in individuals with BMI greater than 30, in hypertensive patients, and seems to be largely independent of dose.

Effect of nebivolol monotherapy or combination therapy on blood pressure levels in patients with hypertension: an updated systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis of 91 randomized controlled trials.

To systematically appraise and summarize the available evidence from published randomized controlled trials considering the effect of nebivolol on blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Literature search was performed through Medline (via PubMed), Cochrane Library and Scopus until December 15, 2023. Double-independent study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were performed. Evidence was pooled with three-level mixed-effects meta-analysis. In total, 7,737 participants with hypertension, who were treated with nebivolol, were analyzed across 91 RCTs. Nebivolol was associated with significantly greater reduction in office systolic and diastolic BP compared to placebo (MD = - 6.01 mmHg; 95% CI = [- 7.46, - 4.55] and MD = - 5.01 mmHg; 95% CI = [- 5.91, - 4.11], respectively). Moreover, resulted a similar reduction in systolic BP (MD = - 0.22 mmHg; 95% CI = [- 0.91, 0.46]) and a significantly greater reduction in diastolic BP compared to the active comparator (MD = - 0.71 mmHg; 95% CI = [- 1.27, - 0.16]). When considering the effect of nebivolol on 24-hour ambulatory BP, notable reductions were observed compared to placebo. In contrast, compared to the active comparators, there was no significant difference in systolic BP reduction, but a significant reduction in diastolic BP favoring nebivolol. Based on moderator analyses, the impact of nebivolol on the pooled estimates remained independent of the dose of nebivolol, age, male sex, trial duration, body mass index (BMI), baseline diabetes, heart failure, and baseline systolic and diastolic BP. Nebivolol, compared to placebo, showed a significant BP reduction and was non-inferior to other active comparators in terms of BP reduction.

Influences of cardiovascular disease on the relationship between baseline systolic blood pressure and adverse outcomes in diabetes: insights from large population-based study

Abstract Objective To evaluate the influences of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on the relationship between baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) and adverse outcomes in diabetes. Methods This is an observational study of 16431 community-dwelling adults with diabetes and 7.8% had CVD. The relationship between SBP (either as a categorical or continuous variable) with major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) and all-cause death were evaluated by baseline CVD status using multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazard models and restricted cubic spline. Results After a median follow-up of 3.4 years, 2145 (13.1%) MACE and 1025 (6.2%) all-cause death occurred. In the overall participants there was a linear relationship between SBP and MACE (P-nonlinear=0.55) and a U-shaped relationship between SBP and all-cause death (P-nonlinear=0.002). In participants free of CVD, in reference to SBP &amp;lt; 120 mmHg group, the risks for MACE increased as SBP category (120-129, 130-139, and ≥ 140 mmHg) advanced (P-trend &amp;lt; 0.001) and there was a linear relationship (P-nonlinear=0.75; Figure 1A); while the risks for all-cause death were lower in SBP of 120-139 mmHg and 140-159 mmHg groups while higher in SBP ≥ 160 mmHg group, and there was a U-shaped relationship (P-nonlinear&amp;lt;0.001; Figure 1B). Notably, in participants with existing CVD the relationship between SBP with MACE and all-cause death did not show any specific pattern. Conclusion The relationship between baseline SBP with MACE and all-cause death varied substantially by baseline CVD status. Future studies to investigate the threshold of initiating BP-lowering treatment and the appropriate BP target in diabetes may consider applying a CVD-based stratification strategy.

Assessing the efficacy of renal denervation in patients with resistant arterial hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background/Introduction Renal denervation (RDN) is an innovative procedure designed to regulate the renal sympathetic nervous system for the control of arterial hypertension (HTN). RDN emerges as an alternative for patients with resistant arterial hypertension. Despite this, the clinical efficacy of RDN is still not fully understood. Purpose Therefore, we aimed to compare the use of renal denervation versus sham procedure or pharmacological treatment in patients with resistant HTN. Methods We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the use of renal denervation procedures and sham procedure or pharmacological treatment in patients with resistant HTN. Statistical analyses were performed using R Studio 4.3.2. Heterogeneity was examined with the Cochran Q test I² statistics. Mean difference (MD) with 95% CI were pooled across trials. P values of &amp;lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The primary continuous outcomes of interest were change from baseline in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and serum creatinine. Results Twenty-one RCTs reporting data on 3345 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Among them, 2004 (59,91%) received renal denervation and 1341 (40,09%) received pharmacological treament or sham procedure. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 48 months. The mean age of patients between studies ranged from 50.7 to 65 years. Compared to control group, RDN significantly reduced Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) (MD -3.53 mmHg; 95% CI -5.94 to -1.12; I2 = 74%) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (MD -1.48 mmHg; 95% CI -2.56 to -0.40; I2 = 51%). Regarding serum creatinine (MD -2.51; 95% CI -7.90 to 2.87; I2 = 40%) there was no significant difference between RDN and control groups. Conclusion In this meta-analysis of RCTs of patients with resistant HTN, RDN was associated with a reduction in SBP and DBP compared to sham procedure or pharmacological treatment.

Predialysis central arterial waveform and blood pressure changes during hemodialysis

To investigate the predictive value of the central arterial waveform for intradialytic blood pressure (BP) change, a total of 152 hemodialysis patients (mean age 68 years) on a thrice-weekly hemodialysis schedule were enrolled, and at both the first and second session of the week, BP and central arterial waveform were measured every 30 min during hemodialysis. In both sessions, a 1-standard deviation increase in baseline subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR), an index of subendocardial perfusion, as well as in baseline systolic BP (SBP) was an independent predictor of maximum SBP decrease ≥ 30 mmHg during hemodialysis. When divided into four groups based on the respective median level of SEVR in the SBP ≥ median and SBP < median groups, intradialytic SBP change was different among the subgroups. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that, compared with the SBP < median; low SEVR group, the SBP < median; high SEVR group had lower risk, and the SBP ≥ median; low SEVR group had higher risk of SBP decrease ≥ 30 mmHg, but the risk did not differ from that in the SBP ≥ median; high SEVR group. Predialysis subendocardial perfusion evaluated by SEVR was associated with the maximum intradialytic BP decrease, and evaluation of the central arterial waveform could be used as complementary screening for intradialytic BP change.

Semaglutide for the treatment of resistant hypertension

Abstract Background Treatment options for resistant hypertension (RH) are often limited by medication intolerance and adverse effects. Novel approaches to treatment are required. The disease of obesity affects 70% of patients with RH. Purpose To determine if a weight centric approach using semaglutide improved BP control in patients with RH. Methods Individual participant data from three randomised placebo-controlled trials (STEP 1, 3 and 4) examining the effect of semaglutide 2.4mg on body weight over 68 weeks were included. Participants on &amp;gt;4 anti-hypertensive medications or those with systolic BP (SBP) &amp;gt;130mmHg at baseline and 3 anti-hypertensive medications including a diuretic were considered to have RH. Firstly, the change in SBP comparing those on semaglutide to placebo was analysed with baseline systolic BP as a covariate in an ANCOVA model. Then, the RH group was subdivided into those with SBP above or below 130mmHg at baseline and BP response to semaglutide assessed. Analyses were performed using R Software version 4.0.3. Results In the pooled analysis of 3136 trial participants, 111 met the criteria for RH. Compared to placebo, participants on semaglutide had a SBP reduction of -4.93mmHg, adjusted for SBP baseline to -3.16mmHg (95%CI -8.69 to 2.37). For those with RH and a baseline SBP &amp;gt; 130mmHg on semaglutide, the SBP change was -10.94mmHg. This change was 4.54mmHg for those with a SBP &amp;lt; 130mmHg. The diastolic BP changes were -3.62 and 2.79mmHg respectively (Figure 1). At trial completion, 36% of those on semaglutide did not meet the criteria for RH. Conclusions The effect of semaglutide on BP for patients with RH is modest. A greater BP reduction is evident for those with a higher baseline SBP. Targeting excess body weight with semaglutide is a viable treatment option for patients with RH and uncontrolled BP.

Injectable angiotensinogen inhibition therapy for hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction Hypertension is the leading risk factor worldwide for cardiovascular mortality, and the development of kidney disease. Management of hypertension involves multiple approaches that involve daily tablet ingestion, with high rates of non-adherence. There is an unmet need for innovative interventions to improve adherence to treatment. Purpose We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the role of injectable angiotensinogen (AGT) inhibitors, such as Zilebesiran and IONIS-AGT-LRx, in the treatment of hypertension. Methods PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) comparing injectable AGT inhibitors versus placebo. Efficacy was assessed through mean changes in angiotensinogen, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). We also examined safety endpoints. We computed pooled mean differences (MD) or risk ratios (RR) for continuous and binary outcomes, respectively, under a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Four studies were included for a total of 512 patients, of whom 279 (54.5%) were male, with a mean age of 57 years old; 349 (68.2%) were white. The mean baseline SBP was 142 ± 19.9 mmHg. In a pooled analysis, mean change of AGT decreased significantly with injectable AGT inhibitor compared with placebo (MD -77.86 %; 95% CI -107.49 to -48.23; p&amp;lt;0.01). Similarly, mean change in SBP (MD -14.15 mmHg; 95% CI -19.53 to -8.78; p=0.30) and DBP (MD -8.49 mmHg; 95% CI -9.98 to -7.00; p=0.78) were also significantly lower in the injectable AGT inhibitor group compared with placebo. AGT inhibitors were well tolerated, without associations with serious adverse events, adverse events related to discontinuation, death, hyperkalaemia, or hypotension. However, there was an increase in injection site reaction with these agents compared with placebo (RR 5.86; 95% CI 1.14 to 30.17; p=0.83). Conclusions In this meta-analysis of RCTs, injectable AGT inhibitors were associated with a significant decrease in mean AGT, SBP, and DBP as compared with placebo. There were no significant differences between groups in serious adverse events, although injection site reaction was more common in patients treated with injectable AGT inhibitors.Forest plot of mean change in SBP

Blood pressure lowering efficacy of antihypertensive drugs and their combinations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 500 randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled trials

Abstract Background Each 1 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) reduces the risk of major cardiovascular disease events by about 2%. However, there are currently no tools to provide randomised trial-derived estimates of blood pressure (BP)-lowering efficacy of different antihypertensive regimens despite the vast number of possible drug-dose permutations. There has also been no attempt to classify efficacy of treatment regimens into low, moderate, and high intensity. Purpose We aimed to quantify the BP-lowering efficacy of the five major classes of antihypertensive drugs and their combinations. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trials. CENTRAL, MEDLINE and Epistimonikos were searched from inception until December 2022 to identify trials, that compared angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics versus placebo, for 4-26 weeks. Primary outcomes were reduction in SBP and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Doses were classified into standard dose based on the World Health Organisation Defined Daily Dose. BP-lowering efficacy was estimated for each drug and dose using fixed-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions, standardised to baseline SBP 154 mmHg. Treatment regimens were categorised into low, moderate, and high intensity according to estimated SBP-lowering efficacy of &amp;lt;10, 10-19 and ≥20 mmHg, respectively. Results A total of 500 trials (106,358 participants, 44% female) were included, which included 66 single antihypertensive drugs (monotherapy) and 89 two drug (dual) combinations. The mean baseline BP was 154/100 mmHg and mean follow-up was 8.6 weeks. Monotherapy at one standard dose reduced SBP by 8.5 (95% CI, 8.2-8.9) mmHg, with an additional 1.2 (1.0-1.5) mmHg reduction for each 10 mmHg higher pre-treatment SBP, and an additional 1.5 (1.2-1.8) mmHg reduction with each doubling in dose. There was significant heterogeneity between monotherapies, and 72% were classified as low intensity efficacy. Dual combinations at one standard doses of both the drugs reduced SBP by 15.2 (13.4-17.1) mmHg, and an additional 2.6 (1.4-3.8) mmHg reduction with doubling the doses of both the drugs. There was considerable heterogeneity between dual combinations and 59% were classified as moderate, and 11% as high intensity efficacy. The BP lowering efficacy of adding additional drug classes was confirmed to be additive after accounting for pre-treatment SBP. Triple combinations were classified as high intensity efficacy based on meta-regression analyses. Conclusions There is significant variability in the efficacy of different BP-lowering regimens. The present analyses, available in an online tool, can estimate the BP lowering efficacy for any combination of drug(s) and dose(s), and can classify treatment regimens into low, moderate or high intensity.

Systolic plood pressure response to ASi BI 690517 with and without empagliflozin in CKD

Abstract Background and Aims: BI 690517 is a highly selective aldosterone synthase inhibitor (ASi) in clinical development for CKD treatment. Coadministration of BI 690517 with a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor may provide additive efficacy and also mitigate risk of hyperkalaemia. This multinational, randomised, dose-finding, Phase II trial (NCT05182840) investigated the efficacy and safety of BI 690517, given alone or in combination with empagliflozin (EMPA), for albuminuria reduction in people with CKD and with or without type 2 diabetes.1 Here, we present a secondary analysis for effects on systolic blood pressure (SBP). Method Adults with CKD receiving a maximally tolerated dose of a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor were randomised (R1) 1:1 to receive background EMPA 10 mg or placebo (PBO-EMPA) during an 8-week run-in. They were then re-randomised (R2) 1:1:1:1 to receive BI 690517 (3 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg) or PBO-ASI for 14 weeks, in addition to their assigned EMPA or PBO-EMPA therapy. Participants had mean baseline SBP ≥110 and ≤160 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure (BP) was defined as SBP ≥140 mmHg or DBP ≥90 mmHg and receiving ≥2 classes of anti-HTN medication. Changes in SBP from R2 baseline to Week 14 were analysed to assess BI 690517 effects with and without EMPA use. Results Of 714 people randomised at R1, 586 were randomised at R2, and the treated set consisted of 583 people. Demographics and clinical characteristics were similar between dose groups.1 At R2 baseline, 169 (29.0%) people had elevated BP. Mean SBP was 142.7 mmHg in the elevated BP group versus 129.2 mmHg in the non-elevated BP group. Treatment with BI 690517 consistently reduced SBP with reductions that were comparable in people with and without elevated BP (p-value for interaction not significant) (Table). Conclusions In people with CKD, BI 690517 reduced SBP in people with and without elevated BP.(Table)

Exercise postcapillary pulmonary hypertension in patients with chronic thromboembolism. Role of multimodal resting and exercise assessment

Abstract Introduction Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease refers to the presence of thrombotic material after a pulmonary embolism (PE), exercise limitation and the absence of resting pulmonary hypertension (PH) but impaired right ventricular and pulmonary vascular reserve during exercise causing exercise precapillary PH (exprecapPH). However, in some patients, PH arises from an abnormal increase in pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) with exercise in relation to underlying diastolic dysfunction, with thrombotic material not playing a substantial role. Whether these patients present distinct non-invasive and resting invasive parameters remains largely unknown. Purpose To compare the different exercise hemodynamic profiles of patients with chronic thromboembolism to identify clinical, echocardiographic, functional and hemodynamic parameters associated with exercise postcapillary PH (expostcapPH). Methods Data come from a prospective cohort of 71 symptomatic patients with perfusion defects in lung scintigraphy and computed tomographic confirmation of chronic thrombi despite anticoagulation ≥3 months after PE without or mild resting PH, undergoing exercise cardiac catheterization via supine cycle ergometry. A multipoint mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP)/cardiac output (CO) and mean PAWP/CO slope were calculated. Simultaneous stress echocardiography was available in 43 patients. Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) was performed 24 hours before catheterization. Results Mean age was 53±13.9 years, 46 (64.8%) were males. 37 patients showed normal exercise hemodynamics, while 26 developed exprecapPH and 8 expostcapPH. Mean mPAP/CO slope was 3.1±1.6 mmHg/L/min, mean PAWP/CO slope 1.5±0.9 mmHg/L/min. Patients with expostcapPH were older, had a higher body mass index and hypertension. Comparison of hemodynamics, CPET and resting echocardiography is depicted in the table. Patients with expostcapPH, similar to those without exercise PH, had significantly lower resting pulmonary pressures and pulmonary vascular resistance than those with exprecapPH. These differences remained at peak exercise; however, while resting PAWP did not differ between groups, a significant increase in PAWP was unmasked in patients with expostcapPH compared to the other groups, and accordingly a significant difference in the PAWP/CO slope. Regarding CPET, patients with expostcapPH had higher baseline systolic blood pressure and lower functional capacity (VO2 max, VO2 at VT1, O2 pulse, OUES). Resting TAPSE/PASP was higher in patients with expostcapPH compared to those with exprecapPH. Conclusions Patients with chronic thromboembolism and expostcapPH exhibit distinct clinical features and have lower functional capacity, while resting PAWP did not allow differentiation between groups. Further studies are warranted to delineate characteristic elements of patients with underlying diastolic dysfunction due to its distinct prognosis and treatment.

Self-Monitoring With Coping Skills and Lifestyle Education for Hypertension Control in Primary Care.

Self-monitoring with support, lifestyle modifications, and emotion management improves blood pressure (BP). Patients with hypertension need continual support to modify behaviors, but time pressures limit lifestyle education in primary care settings. Using mixed methods, we aimed to study the feasibility and acceptability of an innovative 6-week program that combined self-monitoring with coping skills and lifestyle education for patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension interested in lifestyle modifications before intensifying medications were enrolled from primary care clinics. Patients self-monitored emotions, behaviors, and BPs and received education from medical providers and mind-body therapists through shared medical appointments (SMAs) with an option of weekly printed materials. Over 6 months, 31 eligible participants completed the program with higher uptake (21/41) from physician referrals (74.2% women, 41.9% Black, median household income $100 000). Fourteen participants opted for weekly educational materials due to upcoming SMA sessions being fully booked or personal schedules. Pre- to post-intervention paired t-test showed improvement in systolic BP of 11.6mmHg (95% CI, 6.6-16.6, p < 0.0001), and hypertension control rate improved by 36% (11/31) post-intervention. Higher baseline systolic BP was associated with higher BP reduction (p < 0.001). Thematic analysis showed the perceived benefit of self-awareness, education, and peer support, whereas time constraints were perceived as challenges. Self-monitoring with education on coping skills and lifestyle modification is feasible and improved BP and hypertension control across diverse primary care patients interested in lifestyle modifications; however, few low-income patients enrolled. Less burdensome and community-based interventions may improve participation in low-income patients.

Baseline Blood Pressure Was Associated with Hemispheric Cerebral Blood Flow in Acute Small Subcortical Infarcts

Introduction: While increased baseline blood pressure (BP) is a prevalent comorbidity in the acute phase of ischemic stroke, the association between baseline BP and the state of hemispheric perfusion in patients with acute small subcortical infarcts (SSIs) has not been studied in detail. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between baseline BP and hemispheric cerebral blood flow (CBF) in acute SSIs. Methods: This retrospective study included 101 patients with acute SSIs. Baseline hemispheric CBF was assessed through co-registration of baseline CT perfusion imaging and follow-up diffusion-weighted imaging. The association between baseline BP, CBF, and different cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) biomarkers was assessed. Results: Baseline systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were negatively associated with contralateral hemispheric CBF after multivariate-adjusted linear analysis (SBP: β = −0.001, 95% CI: −0.002 to 0.000, p = 0.030; DBP: β = −0.002, 95% CI: −0.003∼0.001, p = 0.006). Among other CSVD biomarkers, the presence of any cerebral microbleeds showed a significant association with lower CBF in the contralateral hemisphere of the infarct lesion (r = −0.270, p = 0.035). Conclusion: In patients with acute SSIs, increased baseline BP was associated with reduced CBF in the contralateral hemisphere of the infarct lesion, which probably could be interpreted by the exacerbation of the CSVD burden, suggesting a potential mechanistic link between BP autoregulation dysfunction and the aggravation of neurovascular impairment in SSIs.