[Drug resistant hypertension]

Abstract Resistant hypertension is defined as the condition unable to attain target clinic blood pressure (BP) level below 140/90 mmHg despite at least 3 classes of antihypertensive drugs including diuretics. It is frequently seen in clinical practice and sometimes difficult to manage. In principle, it is important to uncover the factors which could make the subjects as drug resistant: white-coat resistant hypertension, substances which elevate BP level, insufficient drug regimen, and secondary hypertension including sleep apnea. After confirming truly drug resistance, clinicians should refer them to hypertension specialists to consider device-based antihypertensive therapy. In this article, up-to-date findings of resistant hypertension will be reviewed.