Pathophysiologic considerations in the treatment of the elderly hypertensive patient

Changes that occur as a consequence of aging can influence the development of hypertension and its complications. Such changes may adversely affect cardiac function and tissue blood flow and the responsiveness of the circulation to antihypertensive therapy. The distribution and metabolism of antihypertensive drugs may also be influenced by aging. These factors can complicate the pharmacologic management of the elderly hypertensive patient and may lead to a higher incidence of side effects. A conservative approach to the treatment of isolated systolic hypertension is indicated because the merits of therapy remain uncertain. Although standard stepped-care treatment can be used, certain special precautions should be considered. Lower doses of medications are generally required in elderly than in young hypertensives. Hypokalemia and volume contraction are the more frequent and more clinically important complications of diuretic therapy, while sluggishness, sexual dysfunction, or decreased mentation are more commonly observed with sympatholytic agents. Complications from beta-adrenergic blockers also are relatively frequent in elderly persons. Calcium-channel blockers, although not approved in the United States for the treatment of hypertension, may be beneficial in these patients. When diastolic hypertension is also present, a vigorous approach to lowering blood pressure should be used because the benefits of such therapy have been well documented. However, similar precautions should be used in these patients as in those with systolic hypertension.