Hypertension: history and development of established and novel treatments

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure) has transitioned from an ill-defined condition to a primary modifiable cardiovascular risk factor.
• Significant advancements in drug and interventional treatments have been made over recent decades.
• The evolving understanding of hypertension impacts cardiovascular outcome strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the historical development and paradigm shifts in the field of hypertension.
• To review the evolution of drug and interventional treatments for hypertension.
• To discuss current and future therapeutic strategies for improving cardiovascular outcomes in hypertensive patients.

Main Methods:

• A selective literature search was conducted in PubMed.
• The search included trials published up to 2018 without time restrictions.
• Unpublished trials from ClinicalTrials.gov were also incorporated.

Main Results:

• Hypertension treatment has progressed significantly, marked by the development of effective and tolerable medications.
• Interventional techniques such as renal denervation, arteriovenous fistulas, and autonomic devices represent novel therapeutic approaches.
• New hypertension guidelines have introduced revised definitions and treatment targets, sparking ongoing debate.

Conclusions:

• Despite effective drug therapies, research continues into novel treatments, including neuroendocrine modulation via drugs and devices.
• The goal of these new treatments is to further enhance hypertension management and decrease cardiovascular events.
• Continuous innovation is essential for improving patient outcomes in hypertension care.