Target Blood Pressure Levels Research Articles

Cardioprotective efficacy of combined therapy with azilsartan, indapamide, and nitrendipine in patients with essential hypertension

Abstract Objective To conduct a comparative assessment of the six-month cardioprotective efficacy of combined therapy using azilsartan with indapamide and nitrendipine in patients with essential hypertension (EH). Materials and Methods The study included 101 male and female patients with grade I–II arterial hypertension (AH) according to the classification (ESC/ESH, 2018), who were undergoing outpatient treatment at the Republican Specialized Scientific-Practical Medical Center of Cardiology. The mean age of the patients was 53.1±11.2 years, and the mean duration of AH was 8.5±7.2 years. Initially and after 6 months of therapy, echocardiography was performed to determine the left ventricular myocardial mass index (LVMMI) and left ventricular (LV) echo geometry types. Echocardiography (ECHO) was performed using the "En VisorC" ultrasound system (Philips, Netherlands). Statistical significance was considered for all analyses with p <0.05. Results All patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 - patients on combined antihypertensive therapy (AHT) with azilsartan and indapamide (n=50) and Group 2 - patients on therapy with azilsartan and nitrendipine (n=51). The mean daily dose of azilsartan was 49.3±6.0 mg, nitrendipine was 10.88±4.3 mg, and indapamide was 1.69±0.5 mg. In Group 1, the LVMMI initially was 127.4±32.9 g/m2, and after treatment, it was 110.3±29.0 g/m2 (p<0.001); in Group 2, it was 138.7±31.9 g/m2 and 116.6±30.3 g/m2, respectively (p<0.001). The degree of LVMMI reduction in Group 1 was -13.3±15.6% compared to Group 2, which was -14.4±17.9% (p>0.05). During therapy with azilsartan, indapamide, and nitrendipine, the reduction of LVMMI in EH patients was associated with a decrease in the concentric type of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in both therapy groups: in both groups, a significant increase in the LV diastolic filling pattern index/LVMMI was observed, which was 0.51±0.07 ml/g before treatment and 0.57±0.14 ml/g after treatment in Group 1 (p<0.001), and 0.50±0.11 ml/g before treatment and 0.54±0.12 ml/g after treatment in Group 2 (p<0.02). Significant regression of LVH with 6-month combined therapy in both groups was accompanied by an improvement in LV echo geometry. Initially, there were 12 patients (11.9%) with unchanged LV echo geometry, concentric remodeling was detected in 9 patients (8.91%), eccentric LVH in 30 patients (29.7%), and concentric LVH in 50 patients (49.5%). In the dynamics, the number of patients with normal LV echo geometry increased to 41 patients (40.6%), with concentric LVH decreased to 34 patients (33.6%), with concentric remodeling decreased to 7 patients (7%), and with eccentric LVH decreased to 19 patients (18.8%) (χ2=21.635, p<0.001). Conclusion Achieving target blood pressure levels provided high cardioprotective efficacy of combined therapy with azilsartan, indapamide, and nitrendipine with improvement in LV echo geometry in both groups.

Comparison of intensive treatment versus standard treatment in lowering blood pressure and its association with cognitive decline and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background The ideal blood pressure target level for preventing cognitive decline or dementia in patients with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) remains unclear. Purpose This study aims to investigate whether intensive blood pressure reduction compared to standard treatment is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline or dementia in adults with SAH. Methods PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane databases were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing intensive treatment versus standard treatment for blood pressure reduction in patients with SAH. A random-effects model was used for analyzing the results, which were presented as relative risk (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity was examined using the I² statistic. Statistical analysis was performed using R software version 4.2.3. Results A total of 5 RCTs and 46,658 patients were included, of whom 23,726 (50,85%) underwent intensive therapy for SAH treatment. The mean age of participants ranged from 62.8 to 80.9 years in the intensive treatment group while it ranged from 63.3 to 80.3 years in the standard treatment group. Occurrence of dementia or probable dementia was significantly lower in the intensive treatment group (3.8% vs. 4,3%; RR 0.88; 95% CI: 0.80 - 0.96; p= 0.0049; I²=0%). Dementia or Cognitive decline (16.4% vs. 18.8%; RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.83 - 0.90; p < 0.000001; I²=0%), and cognitive decline (13.2% vs. 15.2%; RR 0.88; 95% CI 0.80 - 0.98; p= 0.014; I²=53%) also tended towards the intensive treatment group. Additionally, no significant association was found in mortality (6.4% vs. 7.3%; RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.75 - 1.02; p= 0.09; I²=28%) and serious adverse effects (34.4% vs. 35.5%; RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.92 - 1.06; p=0.73; I²=63%). Conclusion Our study shows that intensive blood pressure treatment is associated with a fewer occurrence of dementia, probable dementia and cognitive decline in comparison to the standard blood pressure target.General Analysis

Chronopharmacotherapy and correction of central pressure in the aorta, structural and functional state of the left ventricular in patients with arterial hypertension and ischemic stroke

Objective. To evaluate the dynamics of central aortic pressure and the cardioprotective effect of antihypertensive chronopharmacotherapy in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) and ischemic stroke. Materials and methods. The study included 119 patients with AH who has suffered an ischemic stroke; patients were randomized in 2 groups depending on the chronopharmacotherapy option: group 1 (n = 60) – patients who received indapamide retard 1.5 mg and valsartan 160 mg in the morning; group 2 (n = 59) – indapamide retard 1.5 mg in the morning and valsartan 80 mg each in the morning and before bedtime. After 2 months of pharmacotherapy, the achievement of the target level of blood pressure was assessed. In group 1, blood pressure was recorded in 47 (78.3 %), in group 2 – in 56 (94.9 %) patients (p < 0.05). The rest of the respondents, who did not reach the blood pressure target, underwent correction of antihypertensive therapy and were excluded from further follow-up. Accordingly, further follow-up was carried out in 47 patients of group 1 (group 1a) and 56 patients of group 2 (group 2a). Initially and after 12 months of therapy, echocardiography parameters ("ALOKA SSD 2500", Japan), as well as daily blood pressure monitoring with determination of central aortic pressure (Peter Telegin LLC BPLabVasotens, Russia) were performed. The results of the study were processed using the Statistica 12.0 program (StatSoftInc, USA). Results. At the time of inclusion in the study, the main parameters of the central aortic pressure and echocardiography parameters in both groups of patients were equivalent. After 12 months a statistically more significant decrease in the main parameters of the central aortic pressure (average daily systolic and diastolic pressure in the aorta, pulse pressure in the aorta, augmentation index in the aorta, amplification of pulse pressure, duration of the expulsion period, subendocardial blood flow efficiency index), as well as echocardiography indicators was recorded in group 2a (end-systolic and end-diastolic dimensions, thickness of the interventricular septum, thickness of the posterior wall of the left ventricular myocardium, left ventricular myocardial mass, left ventricular myocardial mass index and ejection fraction) (p < 0.05). The left ventricular myocardial geometry normalized during therapy was recorded significantly more often in group 2a than in group 1a (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Two times a day intake of valsartan with thiazidelike diuretic in the morning facilitated more significant improvement of central aortic pressure, echocardiography parameters and as well as an improvement in the geometry of the left ventricular myocardium comparing to just morning intake.

Effectiveness of a fixed combination of empagliflozin with metformin in reduction of cardiovascular risk in patients with uncontrolled arterial hypertension and decompensated type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objective is to study the effectiveness of a fixed combination of empagliflozin and metformin in reducing cardiovascular risk in patients with uncontrolled arterial hypertension (AH) and decompensated type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and methods. 36 patients with uncontrolled AH and decompensated type 2 diabetes mellitus aged 45 to 60 were examined. Before inclusion in the study, all patients received standard antihypertensive (angiotensin‑converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or angiotensin‑II receptor blocker (ARB) in combination with a calcium channel blocker and a thiazide‑like diuretic), glucose‑lowering (metformin) and hypolipidemic (atorvastatin) therapy. However, target levels of blood pressure (BP), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and lipids were not achieved. After the initial examination, all patients were prescribed a fixed combination of empagliflozin and metformin at a dose of 12.5 mg/1000 mg 1—2 times a day, and antihypertensive and hypolipidemic therapy was continued. Re‑examination was carried out after 20 weeks. In the work, a statistical analysis of the obtained data was carried out using standard methods using Microsoft Excel 7.0 and SPSS 19.0 application packages. Results. The transfer of the examined patients from previous ineffective hypoglycemic therapy to a fixed combination of empagliflozin with metformin against the background of standard antihypertensive and hypolipidemic therapy made it possible to achieve the target levels of HbA1c in 69% of patients and target BP levels in 64%. The frequency of reaching target BP levels in the subgroup of patients who received ARB was significantly higher than in the subgroup of patients who received ACE inhibitors. The specified therapy contributed to a significant reduction in body weight, reaching the target levels of low‑density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‑C) and non‑high‑density lipoprotein cholesterol (Non‑HDL‑C) in more than a third of patients, and reducing the severity of albuminuria in some patients. The tested therapy, in general, led to reduction in cardiovascular risk and did not cause side effects that could lead to discontinuation of treatment. Conclusions. The fixed combination of empagliflozin with metformin against the background of standard antihypertensive and hypolipidemic therapy in patients with uncontrolled hypertension and decompensated type 2 diabetes mellitus contributed to the achievement in the vast majority of patients of the target levels of HbA1c in the blood and BP levels, reduced body weight, positive changes in lipid metabolism and kidney function, and demonstrated the possibility of a significant reduction in cardiovascular risk. A more pronounced decrease in BP was detected in the case of a fixed combination of empagliflozin and metformin with ARB compared to ACE inhibitors in this category of patients.

Predictors of the development of abnormal patterns of circadian blood pressure rhythm in patients with hypertension after a new coronavirus infection

Objective. To determine the predictors of the development of abnormal patterns of circadian blood pressure (BP) rhythm in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) after a new coronavirus infection (NСVI). Materials and methods. The study is a comparative clinical research of the same patients with hypertension before and after NCVI with retrospective evaluation of the data. Within 2 years from 842 patients with cardiovascular risk factors, according to the inclusion and non-inclusion criteria 70 patients with target levels of office BP, home monitoring and 24-hour blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) on the background of a continuous antihypertensive therapy were included in the study. Abnormal patterns of circadian BP were recorded after NCVI during ABPM in all of them. All patients with hypertension underwent a complete examination before and after NCVI. Results. After NCVI in patients with AH who had achieved the target ranges of office BP before its development, at home measurement and ABPM against the background of continuous antihypertensive therapy with high adherence to treatment, in more than 50 % of patients BP readings were not in the target values, in more than 50 % of the examined patients, BP variability was higher than the permissible values, in 73 % of patients the average daily BP was above 53 mm Hg. Abnormal patterns of circadian BP rhythm in patients with hypertension after NCVI were detected in 61.5 %: "Non-dipper" in 28.6 %; "Night-dipper" – in 21.9 %, masked nocturnal hypertension – in 17.1 %. Conclusion. The indicative significance of the development of abnormal patterns of circadian BP rhythm in patients with hypertension after NCVI was demonstrated by 3 qualitative indicators: glomerular filtration rate with cystatin C 60 ml/min/1.73 m2, cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) ≥ 9, and a high frequency of AGT gene polymorphism – T/T genotype (in 54.3 % of patients).

Increased lipoprotein (a) as an additional factor in the failure to achieve target blood pressure levels and lipid spectrum optimal parameters in patients with arterial hypertension and multifocal atherosclerosis

Aim. To establish the frequency of achieving target of blood pressure (BP) levels and lipid spectrum parameters (LS) in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) and multifocal atherosclerotic lesion (MFAL) with normal and elevated levels of lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) in real clinical practice.Material and methods. The study included 110 patients with AH and MFAL, median age was 59.0 (51.0; 64.3) years. Depending on the level of Lp(a), all patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 — 72 patients (65.5%), Lp(a) level was ≤50 mg/dl (13.2 (3.7; 21.1)), group 2 — 38 patients (34.5%) Lp(a) level was >50 mg/dl (89.5 (62.5; 110.0)). The diagnosis of MFAL included damage to two or more arterial basins according to carotid artery, abdominal aorta and lower extremities arteries duplex scan. Patients of both groups received antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, and antiplatelet therapy.Results. Patients in groups 1 and 2 showed similar blood pressure levels and frequency of antihypertensive therapy use. In both groups, the majority of patients were on a free combination of antihypertensive drugs, only a third of patients used a fixed combination. In most cases, patients of both groups did not reach the target blood pressure levels (63.9% — group 1, 55.3% — group 2), despite the fact that the average blood pressure figures were relatively low (132;83 mmHg in each group). Drug control was also unsatisfactory in both groups, regardless of the level of Lp(a). However, all drug indicators were significantly worse in group 2, despite comparable lipid-lowering therapy, which more often included statin monotherapy. Combination therapy with lipid-lowering drugs was used in patients of groups 1 and 2 only in 20.8% and 10.5%, respectively. Parameters of low-grade inflammation high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 did not differ between the groups and did not exceed the reference values.Conclusion. An increased level of Lp(a) may be accompanied by drug disorders and increased BP in patients with MFAL. Due to the lack of effective Lp(a) reducing therapy, the prevention of cardiovascular events in such patients should focus on BP and lipid spectrum correction. The use of fixed combinations, including antihypertensive and lipid-lowering drugs, can lead to improved adherence to therapy, increased BP and LS control.

Abstract P330: Next-Gen Hypertension Control: Integrating Clinical Pharmacists And Cutting-Edge EPIC Electronic Medical Record For Quality And Result Driven Approaches at Federally Qualified Health Centers

Hypertension management in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) requires innovative and comprehensive strategies beyond traditional methods. This study explores a collaborative approach by integrating clinical pharmacists into the healthcare team and utilizing the EPIC Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. The model addresses medical and non-medical health determinants, offering comprehensive treatment for underserved communities regardless of their ability to pay. We hypothesized that integrating clinical pharmacists would improve and sustain blood pressure control, resulting in more patients achieving their target health outcomes. As part of multidisciplinary teams, clinical pharmacists identify, track, and analyze patient data, manage medication therapies under collaborative practice agreements, and coordinate with other healthcare providers to ensure continuous care. By leveraging EPIC EMR’s data management and patient monitoring capabilities, clinical pharmacists use real-time data to tailor medication regimens, ensure timely interventions, and conduct follow-ups every 2 to 4 weeks via telemedicine or in-clinic visits until patients reach their goals. This approach enhances patient engagement and medication adherence, which is crucial for adequate blood pressure control and cost management. It also supports personalized care addressing medical needs, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors affecting patient health. The study, initiated in January 2024, involves adult patients with hypertension at one of the largest FQHC in Houston, TX. Key performance indicators include the percentage of patients achieving target blood pressure levels, medication adherence rates, and the frequency of follow-up visits. Preliminary data from quarter 1, 2024, shows that out of 327 patients, 58% have had at least 2 consultations with a clinical pharmacist. Out of those patients, 46% reached blood pressure control below 140/90 mmHg, while 27% showed improvement toward their goal. This quality and result-driven approach elevates hypertension management standards, reduces health disparities, and enhances healthcare delivery within FQHCs. Clinical pharmacists have proven to be indispensable members of the healthcare team. This session aims to provide practical insights and strategies for healthcare professionals to implement similar models, paving the way for the future of hypertension care.

SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC AND CLINICAL PREDICTORS OF FAILURE TO ACHIEVE THE TARGET LEVEL OF BLOOD PRESSURE IN OUTPATIENTS WITH ISOLATED ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AND IN COMBINATION WITH CARDIOVASCULAR COMORBIDITY

The problem of achieving the target level of blood pressure (TBP) is extremely relevant today, as arterial hypertension (AH) is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular complications.The aim of the study is to investigate the relationships between achievement/failure of TBP and socio-demographic and clinical characteristics in outpatients with isolated AH and in combination with cardiovascular comorbidity and to determine probable predictors of failure to achieve TBP.Material and methods. The study was carried out on the basis of the municipal non-profit enterprise “Gulsk outpatient clinic for general practice of family medicine” of the Strievsky village council, the village of Striyevo, Zvyagelsky district, Zhytomyr region The study involved 140 patients with AH, divided into three groups: isolated AH (n=60), AH+coronary heart disease (CHD) (n=35), AH+CHD+chronic heart failure (HF) (n=45). Patients were considered to have achieved the TBP if their office BP was <140/90 mm Hg when measured twice with an interval of 1 month.Results. The absence of statistically significant changes according to achievement/failure of TBP between outpatients with isolated AH and AH with cardiovascular comorbidity (χ2=3.37; p=0.185) was revealed, while in the group with isolated AH 65.00%, in the group with AH + CHD – 45.71%, in the group of AH + CHD + HF – 57.78% of people did not reach the TBP. Analyzing the relationships between the achievement/failure of TBP and age, gender, social status and modifiable risk factors (smoking, alcohol abuse and salt abuse), statistically significant differences were found only in relation to salt abuse in outpatients with AH and cardiovascular comorbidity (in the group of AH + CHD 100.00%, and in the group AH + CHD + HF 96.15% of people who abuse salt did not reach the TBP). The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that the female gender is by 4.1 times more likely to be associated with failure to achieve TBP compared to the male gender in the group with isolated AH, by 3.5 times – in the group of AH+CHD, by 3.4 times – in the group of AH+CHD+HF; salt abuse increases the risk of not reaching the TBP in the group with isolated AH by 19.4 times; by 20.8 times – in the group of AH + CHD; by 21.1times – in the group of AH + CHD + HF. Analyzing the relationship between achievement/failure of TBP and clinical characteristics of outpatients with isolated AH, the duration of the disease in persons who did not reach TBP is 2.0 times longer than the catamnesis of persons who reached TBP (p<0.001); the degree and stage of arterial hypertension significantly affects achievement/failure of TBP (χ2=22.27; p<0.001 and χ2=7.66; p=0.022, respectively). The results of the logistic regression analysis show that an increase in BP (in particular, each subsequent degree of AH) is more often associated with failure to achieve TBP both in patients with isolated AH and in patients with AH and cardiovascular comorbidity: by 2.7 times in the group with isolated AH; by 2.8 times in the group of AH + CHD; by 3.0 times – in the group of AH+CHD+HF.Conclusions. Female gender, salt abuse, and the degree of AH are statistically significant factors associated with an increased risk of not reaching the target blood pressure level both in outpatients with isolated AH and in patients with AH combined with cardiovascular comorbidity.

До проблеми оптимальної антигіпертензивної терапії хворих на артеріальну гіпертензію з цукровим діабетом 2 типу (за даними Рекомендацій Європейського товариства з гіпертензії 2023 року)

The review of the problem of optimal antihypertensive therapy for patients with arterial hypertension (AH) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through the prism of the 2023 European Society of Hypertension Guidelines examines the issues of diagnosis, prevention and treatment of very high-risk patients. In the historical aspect, the evolution of knowledge regarding this problem is considered, data on the epidemiology of comorbid pathology are given, attention is focused on the target levels of blood pressure and approaches to its monitoring. The authors comment on important population studies with a high level of evidence in this regard, touch on the aspects of prescribing new classes of drugs, namely mineralocorticoid receptor agonists and sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors for reducing blood pressure and glycemia, considering the classes and levels of evidence. At the end, the issue of prevention and treatment of manifestations of cardiovascular pathology in patients with type 2 diabetes is highlighted. Key words: arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes, 2023 European Society of Hypertension Guidelines, diagnosis, prevention and treatment, cardiovascular pathology.

Efficacy of combined antihypertensive therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with various polymorphisms of the CYP2C9 gene

Background. The difficulty of achieving target blood pressure (BP) levels in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) is often due to their type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In turn, taking into account the individual genetic characteristics of the body helps to personalize treatment and make it more effective. Aim. To compare the antihypertensive efficacy of a fixed combination of amlodipine and olmesartan medoxomil (Aml/Ol-M) in patients with hypertension and T2DM, with and without NAFLD, depending on the polymorphism of the CYP2C9 gene. Materials and methods. The study included 139 patients with uncontrolled hypertension and concomitant T2DM; after diagnosis of NAFLD, they were randomized into 2 groups: without NAFLD (group 1, n=70), with NAFLD (group 2, n = 69). After discontinuation of previous ineffective antihypertensive therapy, they were prescribed a combination of Aml/Ol-M in doses of 5-10/20-40 mg/day. At baseline, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks, their office BP levels were determined; Also, at the initial visit and after 24 weeks of treatment, the main indicators of 24-hour blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) were measured. Patients who did not reach the blood pressure target within 12 weeks of therapy were excluded from the study. Those who continued to participate in the amplifierThe Rotor Gene-Q allele discrimination method revealed the following distribution of polymorphic variants of the CYP2C9 gene: *1/*1 was found in 52 and 47, *1/*2 – in 6 and 5, *1/*3 – in 5 and 6 subjects, for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Results. The initial levels of office BP values were significantly higher in patients of group 2 and amounted to 153,5 mm Hg for systolic and 93 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure, compared with 145 mm Hg and 88 mm Hg those included in group 1. After 12 weeks of therapy, the achievement of target blood pressure was registered in 63 (90 %) patients of group 1 and in 58 (84,1 %) of group 2. After 24 weeks of observation, in both groups a beneficial effect of the studied combination of drugs on all indicators of ABPM was noted, but a more pronounced improvement was noted in patients with NAFLD. Along with this, significant improvements in daily blood pressure profiles were registered in both groups 1 and 2: an increase in the number of patients with the “dipper” profile and a decrease in the number of patients with the pathological “non-dipper” profile. The antihypertensive effectiveness of Aml/Ol-M has been demonstrated for all isolated allelic variants of the CYP2C9 gene. Conclusions. A 24-week study with the use of Aml/Ol-M demonstrated a high incidence of achieving office BP target values in patients with hypertension and T2DM, with and without NAFLD. However, a more pronounced decrease in ABPM levels was found in patients with NAFLD. Carriage of any of the identified polymorphic gene variantsCYP2C9 had no effect on the clinical effects of the studied combination.

When Hypertension Gets On One’s Nerves: Has The Time Come For Renal Denervation?

For centuries, hypertension (HTN) has been a major cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Even now in 2024, despite all the advances in its understanding, adequate diagnosis and treatment of HTN globally is still sorely lacking. In a 2022 publication it is estimated that as much as 54% of hypertensive patients worldwide are undiagnosed. 42% of the hypertensive patients are both diagnosed and treated, yet only 21% of all hypertensive patients have blood pressure (BP) under control(1). Obviously, on a global scale there are way too many factors and variables that need to be addressed. Yet as practicing clinical physicians we are left to do what we can for the patients we encounter. Assuming there is a program in place to ensure compliance and follow-up, it is estimated that 82% of patients can achieve target BP(2). By simple calculation however, that also means nearly 20% of compliant patients will still not achieve target BP levels despite adequate medical treatment. And amongst those who do, around 20% would be on 3 or 4 anti hypertensive agents(3). This then begs the question… what else can we do for these difficult-to control patients? Renal denervation (RDN) was heralded into the limelight by the SYMPLICITY HTN-1(4) trial which showed RDN provided significant benefit to ambulatory BP readings on follow-up. At that time, RDN seemed poised to achieve a breakthrough in the management of HTN by offering difficult to-control patients another alternative to an ever-increasing number of medications. The RDN train however got derailed when several sham-controlled trials revealed little to no benefit with RDN treated patients compared to control(5,6,7,8). It was not until the second generation RDN technology came around and until RDN technique became much more refined that RDN plus medical therapy was proven to be clearly superior to medical therapy alone. The overall consensus now is that RDN can now provide the same benefits as adding another anti-hypertensive agent(9). And because of this, something that was heretofore unforeseen also occurred. RDN has somehow slowly moved past recommendation guidelines, and has become a therapy of choice for several patient subsets. In more developed countries, a good number of patients who have undergone RDN are those who asked for it. These patients are those who find it difficult to be compliant with medications, patients who are younger, of male gender, have higher ambulatory BP readings, those with concomitant heart failure and those who have numerous side effects from medical treatment for HTN(10). In some countries therefore, it is gradually becoming as mainstream as adding another medicine. As with any new technology, in our local Philippine setting the main barrier is cost. In patients in whom this is not an issue however, it seems the RDN floodgates are about to be opened. And if RDN trends in other countries are any indication, it is only a matter of time before RDN becomes standard therapy for the Philippine hypertensive patient. This consensus statement on RDN therapy by the 2023 Philippine Working Group published by Oliva et al (this issue) highlights what RDN is all about, its indications as well as the subsets of patients that are candidates for RDN. By its mere publication, it serves other purposes. It helps increase awareness about RDN’s availability, and lends more steam to the local RDN locomotive. Next stop? Better and more consistent BP control for the Filipino hypertensive patient!

Combination therapy for hypertension management: insights from the Indian experts

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.

COMPARATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF FREE AND FIXED COMBINED ANTIHYPERTENSIVE THERAPY IN ACHIEVING TARGET BLOOD PRESSURE VALUES IN UNCONTROLLED ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

Objective: Aim of our study was to assess the achievement of target blood pressure in uncontrolled hypertensive patients with high and very high-risk, resistant to double AHT, depending on the treatment regimen - free and fixed combinations of three antihypertensive drugs. Design and method: The study included 143 patients II-III AH stage, who were on double AHT, who are not reached the target blood pressure level. The average age of patients was 55.8±9.35 years, including men n=70 (49%), women n=73 (51%). All patients underwent a physical examination with three measurements of office blood pressure using the Korotkoff method. Patients were randomized into 2 groups: group 1- triple antihypertensive therapy with a free combination of indapamide, amlodipine, and perindopril (n=71), and 2 nd group- a fixed combination therapy (n=72). Statistics were carried out between the stages before treatment and 6 months. Results: Research results. Against the background of triple AHT, target blood pressure levels were achieved in both groups: in group 1, initial SBP/DBP before treatment was 171.29±16.6 mmHg/99.64±9.03 mmHg, in dynamics 128.38±8.5 mmHg/80.89±6.38 mmHg. (p=0.0001); in group 2: initially SBP/DBP before treatment 170.76±17.75 mmHg/100.63±8.39 mmHg, 6 months of therapy 121.95±6.7 mmHg st./77.23±5.59 mmHg (p=0.0001). The results showed a significant decrease in SBP (p=0.0001) and DBP (p=0.0001) in group 2 compared to group 1. At the same time, the primary target level in group 1 was achieved in 83.3%, in group 2 in 94.4% of patients (χ2 = 7.471; p = 0.006). The target blood pressure level <130/80 according to SBP was achieved by 42% and 67% of patients, respectively, for groups 1 and 2 (χ2=11.61; p=0.0001); for DBP – 10% and 33.3%, respectively, for groups 1 and 2 (χ2=9.011; p=0.003). Conclusions: Obtained results showed the high antihypertensive effectiveness of 6-month AHT with a triple fixed combination therapy compared to free, achieving the primary target blood pressure level and the main target blood pressure level in a significantly larger number of patients with hypertension on a triple fixed combination of antihypertensive drugs.

FOLLOW-UP OF SURVIVAL PATIENTS WITH RESISTANT ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

Objective: Resistant arterial hypertension (RAH) contributes to high mortality worldwide. Aim of the study: to assess 7-year follow-up survival and development of a composite end point (CEP) in patients with RAH. Design and method: The analysis includes 50 patients with RAH who were discharged from hospital. After 7 years discharge from the hospital, the patients underwent office BP measurement. Adverse events or death were reported as the composite endpoint (CEP). The average age of patients as of 2016 was 57.89 ± 11.81 y.o. 16% had type 2 diabetes (n=8). Results: After 7 years, in 32% (n=16) developed CEP, and 10% (n=5) of them died. The BMI increased from 30.87 ± 6.30 to 33.80 ± 6.90 kg/m2 (p<0.05). 20% had smoke (n=10), but 8% (n=4) (quit smoking after developing CEP). After 7 years, 48.88% of patients (n=22) controlled office blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg and 51.11% did not (n=23). Among patients who reached the target office BP (130.73 ± 6.61/81.59 ± 4.13 mmHg), there was a decrease in the number of drugs from 3.76 ± 0.19 to 2.85 ± 0.14, p<0.05. 45% (n=10) from the group took fixed combinations. Among patients who did not reach target office BP (148.04 ± 7.49/92.17 ± 4.66 mmHg), there was also a decrease in the number of drugs from 3.52 ± 0.18 to 2.50 ± 0.13, p<0.05 – patients decision. After regression analysis the main factors that were associated with the occurrence of CEP in patients with RAH were: the presence of diabetes (β= 5,237, p= 0,032) smoking (β=4,326, p= 0,037), increased body weight (β =3,423, p=0,024), failure to achieve target blood pressure levels (β =4,152, p=0,041) Conclusions: Mortality among patients with RAH were 10% during 7 years. The total composite endpoint were 32%. Did not reach the target office BP in patients with RAH the factors for the development of combined end point was diabetes mellitus, smoking and weight gain.

FOLLOW-UP OF RENAL DENERVATION IN PATIENTS WITH RESISTANT ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

Objective: Aim. Determining the long-term efficacy and safety of RDN the results of a 10-year follow-up Design and method: We selected 1146 patients with resistant arterial hypertension (RAH) who received 3 or more antihypertensive drugs. 16 patients were selected for renal artery denervation. RDN was performed in 8 patients (0.70%). 8 patients refused the procedure. The age was 52.13 ± 3.88 years (40–66), the duration of hypertension was 16.75 ± 2.17 (12–25) years. The number of antihypertensive drugs was 5.5 ± 0.18 (patients was in refractory hypertension). Office SBP/DBP on optimization of therapy was 156.88/95.00 ± 2.98 mm Hg and heart rate - 68.88 ± 3.28 beats/min. 24SBP/DBP was 149.16 ± 5.40/86.98 ± 5.08 mm Hg. 24HR was 70.12 ± 2.94 beats/min. All patients tolerated the procedure well. Results: The decrease in office SBP/DBP in the dynamics of 1 month, 12 months, 2 years, 5 years and 10 years were -12,59/-10,0, -11,17/-2,57, -20,31/-11,71, -27,71/-13,33 and -30,21/-16,67 mm Hg, respectively. The office heart rate (HR) decreased, its dynamics were -3.74 bpm, -4.68 bpm, -1.45 bpm, - 2.13 bpm. -4.21 bpm, - 3.88 bpm., respectively. The decrease in 24SBP/DBP was -14,45/-6,95, -8,70/-10,01, -19,45/-12,37, -19,91/-11,24, -29,93/-13,61 and -26,13/-23,35 mm Hg. (p<0.05 for all values). 24HR dynamics: -3.16 bpm, - 4.19 bpm, + 1.43 bpm. -1.51 bpm, -4.46 bpm, and -5.49 bpm, respectively. After 2, 5, and 10 years, all patients reached the target blood pressure level both in the office and with ABPM. Patients reduced the number of antihypertensive drugs from 5.50±0.18 to 3.50±0.30 - after 5 years and 3.67±0.18 - after 10 years after RDN. GFR change over 10 years from 76.10±5.62 to 64.60±1.93 ml/min/1.73m2, p>0.05. One patient died of thyroid cancer 2 years later. All other patients are alive and have not had any cardiovascular event or death during 10 years. Conclusions: Long-term results of renal artery denervation showed no cardiovascular events or cardiovascular death over 10 years. RDN contributed to a reduction in the number of antihypertensive drugs from 5.5 to 3.67 after 10 years of therapy. All patients achievement of the target BP level.

The short and long-term efficacy of nurse-led interventions for improving blood pressure control in people with hypertension in primary care settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundPrevious systematic reviews suggest that nurse-led interventions improve short-term blood pressure (BP) control for people with hypertension. However, the long-term effects, adverse events, and appropriate target BP level are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of nurse-led interventions.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and CINAHL, as well as three Japanese article databases, as relevant randomized controlled trials from the oldest possible to March 2021. This search was conducted on 17 April 2021. We did an update search on 17 October 2023. We included studies on adults aged 18 years or older with hypertension. The treatments of interest were community-based nurse-led BP control interventions in addition to primary physician-provided care as usual. The comparator was usual care only. Primary outcomes were long-term achievement of BP control goals and serious adverse events (range: 27 weeks to 3 years). Secondary outcomes were short-term achievement of BP control goals and serious adverse events (range: 4 to 26 weeks), change of systolic and diastolic BP from baseline, medication adherence, incidence of hypertensive complications, and total mortality.ResultsWe included 35 studies. Nurse-led interventions improved long-term BP control (RR 1.10, 95%CI 1.03 to 1.18). However, no significant differences were found in the short-term effects of nurse-led intervention compared to usual care about BP targets. Little information on serious adverse events was available. There was no difference in mortality at both terms between the two groups. Establishing the appropriate target BP from the extant trials was impossible.ConclusionsNurse-led interventions may be more effective than usual care for achieving BP control at long-term follow-up. It is important to continue lifestyle modification for people with hypertension. We must pay attention to adverse events, and more studies examining appropriate BP targets are needed. Nurse-led care represents an important complement to primary physician-led usual care.

Blood pressure cutoffs at 11–13 weeks of gestation and risk of preeclampsia

A parallel has been drawn between first-trimester placental vascular maturation and maternal cardiovascular adaptations, including blood pressure. Although 140/90 mm Hg is well-accepted as the threshold for chronic hypertension in the general obstetric population in early pregnancy, a different threshold could apply to stratify the risk of adverse outcomes, such as preeclampsia. This could have implications for interventions, such as the threshold for initiation of antihypertensive therapy and the target blood pressure level. We evaluated the relationship between various blood pressure cutoffs at 11-13 weeks of gestation and the development of preeclampsia, overall and according to key maternal characteristics. This secondary analysis was of data from a prospective nonintervention cohort study of singleton pregnancies delivering at ≥24 weeks, without major anomalies, at 2 United Kingdom maternity hospitals, 2006-2020. Blood pressure at 11-13 weeks of gestation was classified according to American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association categories (mm Hg) as (1) normal blood pressure (systolic <120 and diastolic <80), (2) elevated blood pressure (systolic ≥120 and diastolic <80), stage 1 hypertension (systolic ≥130 or diastolic 80-89), and stage 2 hypertension (systolic ≥140 or diastolic ≥90). For blood pressure category thresholds and the outcome of preeclampsia, the following were calculated overall and across maternal age, body mass index, ethnicity, method of conception, and previous pregnancy history: detection rate, screen-positive rate, and positive and negative likelihood ratios, with 95% confidence intervals. A P value of <.05 was considered significant. There were 137,458 pregnancies screened at 11-13 weeks of gestation. The population was ethnically diverse, with 15.9% of Black ethnicity, 6.7% of South or East Asian ethnicity, and 2.7% of mixed ethnicity, with the remainder of White ethnicity. Compared with normal blood pressure, stage 2 hypertension was associated with both preterm preeclampsia (0.3% to 4.9%) and term preeclampsia (1.0% to 8.3%). A blood pressure threshold of 140/90 mm Hg was good at identifying women at increased risk of preeclampsia overall (positive likelihood ratio, 5.61 [95% confidence interval, 5.14-6.11]) and across maternal characteristics, compared with elevated blood pressure (positive likelihood ratio, 1.70 [95% confidence interval, 1.63-1.77]) and stage 1 hypertension (positive likelihood ratio, 2.68 [95% confidence interval, 2.58-2.77]). There were 2 exceptions: a blood pressure threshold of 130/80 mm Hg was better for the 2.1% of women with body mass index <18.5 kg/m2 (positive likelihood ratio, 5.13 [95% confidence interval, 3.22-8.16]), and a threshold of 135/85 mm Hg better for the 50.4% of parous women without a history of preeclampsia (positive likelihood ratio, 5.24, [95% confidence interval, 4.77-5.77]). There was no blood pressure threshold below which reassurance could be provided against the development of preeclampsia (all-negative likelihood ratios ≥0.20). The traditional blood pressure threshold of 140/90 mm Hg performs well to identify women at increased risk of preeclampsia. Women who are underweight or parous with no prior history of preeclampsia may be better identified by lower thresholds; however, a randomized trial would be necessary to determine any benefits of such an approach if antihypertensive therapy were also administered at this threshold. No blood pressure threshold is reassured against the development of preeclampsia, regardless of maternal characteristics.

Non-Pharmacological Therapy To Control Blood Pressure in Patients with Hypertension: Literature Review

Hypertension has a significant negative impact on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is associated with many cardiovascular complications and is responsible for 10.4 million deaths and 208.1 million life expectancy-adjusted disabilities. Target blood pressure levels and blood pressure control remain poor despite the availability of numerous pharmacological therapy options. When anti-hypertensive medicine cannot achieve blood pressure targets due to various factors, other alternative treatments are needed so that optimal patient health status can be achieved, one of which is non-pharmacological therapy. The purpose of this study was to identify non-pharmacological therapies to control blood pressure in patients with hypertension. The method used in this study is literature review. The study results of 8 articles obtained non-pharmacological therapies used are low sodium diet, lifestyle modification (conventionally and with the help of applications), reflexology, and exercise. Out of the available non-pharmacological therapies, reflexology was found to have the most significant blood pressure lowering effect in patients with hypertension. This suggests that non-pharmacological therapies are effective in controlling the BP of hypertensive patients.

Efficacy of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan in patients with arterial hypertension

Objective. To identify the effectiveness of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan in reducing blood pressure (BP) in patients with arterial hypertension (HTN) 1–2 degree.Design and methods. The study included 105 patients, among them 90 were included in the effectiveness analysis and were observed for 12 months in an outpatient setting. In accordance with the protocol, 90 patients completed the study, 44 of them received sacubitril/ valsartan (97/103 mg), 46 received valsartan (160 mg). The dynamics of clinical BP in mm Hg and rates of achieving target BP levels in treatment groups were assessed.Results. Systolic after 12 months decreased more significantly in sacubitril/valsartan group versus valsartan: by 14,68 ± 9,33 vs 6,17 ± 4,81 mmHg (p = 0,007). The rate of achieving target BP was higher in the sacubitril/valsartan group (61,41 % vs 34,8 %, p &lt; 0,01).Conclusions. Among patients with 1–2 degree HTN, sacubitril/valsartan reduced blood pressure to a greater extent than valsartan alone and was not inferior to the latter in terms of safety criteria.

ФИКСИРОВАННАЯ КОМБИНАЦИЯ ИРБЕСАРТАН/ГИДРОХЛОРТИАЗИД В ЛЕЧЕНИИ АРТЕРИАЛЬНОЙ ГИПЕРТЕНЗИИ

Almost a third of the population of the Republic of Belarus suffers from elevated blood pressure which results in a high risk of cardiovascular disease developing. Despite the availability of numerous antihypertensive drugs, more than 40% of patients receiving antihypertensive therapy do not achieve target blood pressure levels and continue to be at an increased risk of cardiovascular events. A fixed combination drug irbesartan/hydrochlorothiazide, which includes two active ingredients in one dosage form of a tablet, is an anti-hypertensive combination balanced on the basis of clinical and pharmacological properties, which is approved by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus for use in patients when indicated in case of essential arterial hypertension. This fixed-dose combination is intended for adult patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by irbesartan or hydrochlorothiazide monotherapy. The clinical efficacy and safety of this combination was demonstrated in randomized clinical trials, including patients with a combination of hypertension and type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. The use of the fixed-dose combination of irbesartan/hydrochlorothiazide leads to a more rapid decrease in blood pressure compared to irbesartan monotherapy, allows the majority of patients with severe hypertension to achieve the target blood pressure, and increases drug compliance. Thus, the irbesartan/hydrochlorothiazide combinationis a valuable addition to clinicians’ armamentarium for the treatment of hypertension.