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Are calcium antagonists the best option in elderly hypertensives?

F Forette1, P Bert, A S Rigaud

  • 1Broca Hospital, Paris, France.

Journal of Hypertension. Supplement : Official Journal of the International Society of Hypertension
|September 1, 1994
PubMed

Insights

Calcium antagonists are safe and effective for elderly patients with hypertension. This study found no adverse effects in elderly individuals treated with nicardipine, supporting their use in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Geriatrics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Elderly hypertension often involves increased peripheral resistance and decreased arterial compliance.
  • Calcium antagonists target intracellular calcium concentration in smooth muscles, inhibiting calcium influx and promoting vasodilation.
  • The mechanism of calcium antagonists is particularly suited for treating hypertension in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of calcium antagonists in elderly hypertensive patients.
  • To investigate the effects of nicardipine on electrocardiogram, vital signs, and laboratory parameters in the elderly.
  • To explore potential protective effects against atherosclerosis and cerebral ischemia.

Main Methods:

  • A double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 31 elderly hypertensive patients.
  • Treatment with nicardipine was administered and monitored for specific physiological and biochemical changes.
  • Review of experimental evidence regarding atherosclerotic protection and cerebral effects.

Main Results:

  • No consistent electrocardiogram changes were observed with nicardipine treatment.
  • No significant alterations in heart rate, plasma electrolytes, creatinine, uric acid, or postural hypotension were detected.
  • Experimental data suggests potential protective effects against atherosclerosis and cerebral ischemia, though human extrapolation is debated.

Conclusions:

  • Calcium antagonists, exemplified by nicardipine, are safe and effective for treating hypertension in the elderly.
  • Their vasodilatory mechanism aligns well with the pathophysiology of hypertension in this demographic.
  • Further research may elucidate beneficial cerebral effects and cardioprotective roles in elderly populations.

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