Related Experiment Videos
Nicardipine sustained release in hypertension
J Webster1, J C Petrie, T A Jeffers
1Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill.
British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|October 1, 1991
Summary
A new sustained-release nicardipine formulation effectively lowered blood pressure in mild hypertension patients, showing sustained effects over 12 hours. Standard nicardipine also reduced blood pressure but with less sustained action.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Hypertension management requires effective and well-tolerated antihypertensive agents.
- Nicardipine is a calcium channel blocker used for treating hypertension.
- Evaluating novel drug delivery systems can improve therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare a novel sustained-release (SR) nicardipine formulation with standard (STD) nicardipine in patients with mild hypertension.
- To assess the efficacy and duration of action of both nicardipine formulations.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 60 patients with mild hypertension.
- Patients received either STD nicardipine (30 mg TID) or SR nicardipine (60 mg BID) for 28 days.
- Blood pressure was measured using clinic recordings and home monitoring.
Main Results:
- Both STD and SR nicardipine significantly reduced sitting and standing blood pressure compared to placebo.
- SR nicardipine demonstrated a sustained hypotensive effect throughout the 12-hour dosing interval.
- Adverse effects, primarily vasodilator-related, were reported in 32% of patients on active therapy.
Conclusions:
- The novel sustained-release nicardipine formulation is effective in managing mild hypertension.
- The SR formulation provides a sustained blood pressure reduction over the dosing interval.
- Further research into managing adverse effects associated with nicardipine therapy is warranted.