Amlodipine in the current management of hypertension

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Hypertension is a leading global cause of mortality, impacting 1.4 billion individuals worldwide.
• Calcium channel blockers are common hypertension treatments, with amlodipine exhibiting distinct characteristics.
• A review of amlodipine's evidence over 30 years is crucial for current hypertension management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated overview of amlodipine's evidence over the past 30 years.
• To highlight amlodipine's cardiovascular benefits in contemporary hypertension management.
• To assess amlodipine's efficacy and safety in diverse patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical evidence on amlodipine.
• Analysis of amlodipine's pharmacokinetic properties (low renal clearance, long half-life).
• Evaluation of amlodipine's impact on blood pressure variability and control in various patient groups.

Main Results:

• Amlodipine provides sustained 24-hour antihypertensive effects and maintains blood pressure control even with missed doses.
• It effectively reduces blood pressure variability and controls blood pressure in patients with high BP, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease without adverse effects on glycemic or kidney function.
• Amlodipine demonstrates significant cardiovascular protection, reducing stroke and myocardial infarction risk, particularly in older adults.

Conclusions:

• Amlodipine is a valuable antihypertensive agent with unique pharmacokinetic properties and proven cardiovascular benefits.
• It offers reliable blood pressure control and protection across a broad range of patients, including those with comorbidities.
• Amlodipine is a cost-effective treatment option for hypertension, with potential cost savings compared to usual care.