Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Software for Analysis of Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Time-series Data from the Valsalva Maneuver
14:28

Software for Analysis of Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Time-series Data from the Valsalva Maneuver

Published on: June 27, 2025

Relationship between decrease in ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate variability due to the effects of taking

Taiji Furukawa1, Taketo Hatsuno, Yasunari Ueno

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Teikyo, Japan.

Clinical Drug Investigation
|March 24, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Olmesartan demonstrated superior blood pressure reduction compared to candesartan in patients with essential hypertension. This antihypertensive drug therapy did not induce significant changes in heart rate variability.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Hypertension Management

Background:

  • Olmesartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) with reported high clinical efficacy.
  • Essential hypertension management often involves ARBs like olmesartan and candesartan.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the clinical efficacy of olmesartan versus candesartan in treating essential hypertension.
  • To evaluate the impact of switching from candesartan to olmesartan on blood pressure and heart rate variability.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 31 patients with essential hypertension.
  • Measurements included Holter electrocardiogram, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and pulse wave velocity (PWV).
  • Patients switched from candesartan 8 mg to olmesartan 20 mg.

Main Results:

  • Olmesartan significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure (6.7/3.6 mmHg average decrease).
  • Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was also significantly decreased.
  • No significant alterations in heart rate variability spectral components (VLF, HF, LF/HF) were observed, though LF/HF correlated with blood pressure changes.

Conclusions:

  • Olmesartan exhibits a stronger antihypertensive effect than candesartan.
  • Olmesartan therapy does not appear to generate reflex sympathoexcitatory activity.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers01:30

Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers

In the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, a hormone called angiotensin II plays a crucial role. It binds to the AT1 receptors in vascular smooth muscles coupled with Gq proteins. The activation of these receptors activates an enzyme called phospholipase C, which releases two molecules: inositol trisphosphate and diacylglycerol. These molecules cause a chain reaction that leads to the phosphorylation of myosin light chains and promotes interaction between actin and myosin, leading to smooth...
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure01:18

Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure

Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors01:30

Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a vital component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, is abundant in lung endothelial cells. ACE converts the inactive decapeptide, angiotensin I, into the active octapeptide, angiotensin II. This potent vasoconstrictor narrows blood vessels, increasing resistance to blood flow and elevating blood pressure. Angiotensin II also stimulates aldosterone production, encouraging kidney cells to reabsorb more sodium and water from urine, thereby increasing...
Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System01:18

Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is an intricate network of nerves that controls functions such as the regulation of heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure regulation. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to various disorders that affect multiple bodily functions. One common feature of many autonomic disorders is the involvement of smooth blood vessels, which play a crucial role in regulating blood flow throughout the body.
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon, is a...
Special considerations while measuring blood pressure01:28

Special considerations while measuring blood pressure

When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Alterations in Blood Pressure01:30

Alterations in Blood Pressure

Alterations in blood pressure, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure), significantly affect human health. Understanding these conditions' classifications, causes, and symptoms is essential for effective management and treatment.
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...