Diltiazem as monotherapy for systemic hypertension: a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Essential hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular condition requiring effective management.
• Current antihypertensive therapies necessitate ongoing evaluation for efficacy and tolerability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of diltiazem as a single therapy for essential hypertension.
• To compare the effects of diltiazem versus placebo on blood pressure control.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel group study.
• 77 patients with stable essential hypertension were randomized to receive either diltiazem or placebo for 12 weeks.
• Blood pressure was monitored in supine and standing positions throughout the study.

Main Results:

• Diltiazem significantly reduced both supine and standing blood pressure compared to placebo (p < 0.0001).
• Average supine blood pressure decreased from 156/100 mm Hg to 145/90 mm Hg with diltiazem.
• No significant changes in heart rate or orthostatic blood pressure drop were observed with diltiazem.

Conclusions:

• Diltiazem is an effective and well-tolerated monotherapy for mild to moderate essential hypertension.
• Diltiazem demonstrates favorable comparative efficacy against other antihypertensive agents.