[Stiffness of the Arterial Wall and Central Hemodynamics During Long-Term Combination Antihypertensive Therapy]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology
• Hypertension Research

Background:

• Essential hypertension (EH) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
• Ischemic heart disease (IHD) often coexists with hypertension, complicating patient management.
• Arterial stiffness and central hemodynamics are crucial indicators of cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a fixed-dose combination of lisinopril and amlodipine on arterial wall stiffness and central hemodynamics.
• To assess the effects of this combination therapy in patients with stage I-II essential hypertension and functional class II-III ischemic heart disease.
• To determine if this antihypertensive regimen can reduce left ventricular myocardial mass.

Main Methods:

• The study involved patients with stage I-II essential hypertension and functional class II-III ischemic heart disease.
• Treatment consisted of a fixed combination of lisinopril (10 mg) and amlodipine (5 mg).
• Parameters of arterial wall stiffness, central hemodynamics, and left ventricular myocardial mass were assessed.

Main Results:

• Combination therapy led to a persistent reduction in central arterial pressure.
• Significant decreases were observed in the augmentation index and other arterial stiffness parameters.
• A notable reduction in left ventricular myocardial mass was achieved with the treatment.

Conclusions:

• The fixed combination of lisinopril and amlodipine effectively improves central hemodynamics and arterial wall stiffness in hypertensive patients with IHD.
• This therapeutic approach has the potential to decrease the risk of cardiovascular complications.
• The observed changes suggest an improved prognosis for patients with essential hypertension and ischemic heart disease.