Nifedipine substituted for minoxidil in the treatment of refractory hypertension

Nifedipine slow release tablets were substituted for minoxidil in the treatment of 13 patients with hypertension refractory to conventional therapy. In 12 patients substitution was associated with continuing control of blood pressure (BP), although 11 required maximum dose of 120 mg daily and one 80 mg daily. BP control remained satisfactory in nine patients for at least one year after substitution and in all, loop diuretics previously required with minoxidil to control fluid retention, were discontinued. Three patients (23%) however had to be withdrawn because of side effects; one within days of starting therapy and two after three months: one patient died after sustaining myocardial infarction. There was no evidence of deterioration in renal function in those patients continuing on nifedipine. This drug in combination with other antihypertensive agents provides an alternative approach to the management of patients with refractory hypertension, avoiding the severe side effects of the potent vasodilators.