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Treatment of hypertension in the elderly

Wilbert S Aronow1

  • 1Cardiology Division, New York Medical College, Macy Pavilion, Room 138, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA. wsaronow@aol.com

Comprehensive Therapy
|January 14, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Antihypertensive drug therapy significantly lowers cardiovascular events in elderly individuals. Treatment goals aim for specific blood pressure targets, with adverse effects influenced by drug choice and patient factors.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Elderly individuals are at increased risk for cardiovascular events.
  • Antihypertensive medications are widely used to manage high blood pressure in older adults.
  • Effective blood pressure control is crucial for preventing cardiovascular complications in the elderly population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the evidence supporting antihypertensive drug therapy in reducing cardiovascular events in the elderly.
  • To define target blood pressure goals for older adults, including those with comorbidities like diabetes and chronic renal insufficiency.
  • To outline factors influencing the adverse effects of antihypertensive treatments in elderly patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of numerous studies on antihypertensive drug therapy and cardiovascular outcomes in elderly populations.
  • Analysis of treatment guidelines for blood pressure targets in older adults.
  • Examination of factors contributing to adverse drug reactions in this demographic.

Main Results:

  • Antihypertensive drug therapy is proven to reduce cardiovascular events in elderly persons.
  • Recommended blood pressure targets are <140/90 mmHg, and <130/80 mmHg for those with diabetes or chronic renal insufficiency.
  • Adverse effects are contingent upon specific drugs, dosages, comorbidities, and potential drug-drug interactions.

Conclusions:

  • Antihypertensive therapy is a cornerstone in managing cardiovascular risk in the elderly.
  • Personalized treatment strategies are necessary to achieve optimal blood pressure control while minimizing adverse effects.
  • Careful consideration of patient-specific factors is essential for safe and effective antihypertensive drug use in older adults.

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