[24-hour blood pressure decrease with nifedipine with a new galenic action].

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Essential hypertension remains a significant global health concern, necessitating effective long-term blood pressure management strategies.
• Current treatments often face challenges with adherence and sustained efficacy throughout the day.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the 24-hour blood pressure-lowering efficacy of a slow-release nifedipine formulation.
• To assess the safety and tolerability of this slow-release nifedipine preparation in hypertensive patients.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study involving 18 inpatients with essential hypertension (blood pressure > 160/95 mmHg).
• Participants received a single 60 mg slow-release nifedipine tablet (Aprical long 60 mg) or placebo daily at 1800 hours.
• Blood pressure and pulse were measured at multiple intervals up to 24 hours post-administration.

Main Results:

• Slow-release nifedipine significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 20 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 14 mmHg, sustained for 18-24 hours.
• The active treatment group showed a 40% (systolic) and 49% (diastolic) greater likelihood of achieving target blood pressure (< 160/95 mmHg) compared to placebo.
• Fifteen patients maintained blood pressure within the target range for the full 24-hour period, with rare occurrences of side effects like headache and flushing.

Conclusions:

• Slow-release nifedipine (60 mg) provides effective and sustained 24-hour blood pressure control in essential hypertension.
• Evening administration appears beneficial for managing morning blood pressure surges, offering a well-tolerated therapeutic option.