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Amlodipine/Valsartan: fixed-dose combination in hypertension
Greg L Plosker1, Dean M Robinson
1Wolters Kluwer Health | Adis, Auckland, New Zealand. demail@adis.co.nz
Drugs
|February 9, 2008
Summary
Fixed-dose amlodipine/valsartan significantly reduces blood pressure (BP) more than monotherapy in hypertension. This combination therapy is well-tolerated and effective across diverse patient groups.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Amlodipine (calcium channel blocker) and valsartan (angiotensin II receptor blocker) are common antihypertensives.
- Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of amlodipine/valsartan are approved in the US and Europe.
- Individual dose titration is typically recommended before initiating FDCs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of fixed-dose amlodipine/valsartan combination therapy.
- To compare the blood pressure-lowering effects of amlodipine/valsartan FDC against monotherapy and placebo.
Main Methods:
- Two randomized, double-blind, factorial trials were conducted in patients with mild to moderate hypertension.
- Patients received amlodipine/valsartan FDC, amlodipine monotherapy, valsartan monotherapy, or placebo.
- Blood pressure reductions and response rates were assessed.
Main Results:
- Amlodipine/valsartan FDC demonstrated significantly greater reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to monotherapy or placebo.
- Response rates, defined as diastolic BP <90 mmHg or a ≥10 mmHg reduction, were 80-90% with the FDC.
- Efficacy was consistent across elderly, Black patients, and those with stage 2 hypertension.
- Peripheral edema incidence was lower with amlodipine/valsartan FDC than with amlodipine monotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Fixed-dose amlodipine/valsartan is a highly effective antihypertensive treatment.
- The combination therapy offers superior blood pressure control and is well-tolerated, with a notable reduction in peripheral edema compared to amlodipine monotherapy.
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