Selected factors that influence responses to antihypertensives. Choosing therapy for the uncomplicated patient

Numerous factors may influence an individual patient's response to antihypertensive therapy. The physician should select therapy that is more likely to effectively control the patient's blood pressure. In addition to age and race, specific properties of the drugs plus the method of administration can influence response. Most antihypertensives can be given once or twice daily without the need for sustained-release dosage forms. The appropriate selection of regular-release products can significantly reduce the cost of therapy and improve adherence to the regimen. Because most antihypertensives exist as isomers of two compounds, response to a given agent can be influenced by the type of product (eg, sustained-release) or the method of administration. When these variables are considered for individual patients, it is more likely that a given drug will be effective.