Related Experiment Videos
Amlodipine once-daily in systemic hypertension
J P Pfammatter1, C Clericetti-Affolter, A C Truttmann
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Bern, Inselspital, Switzerland.
European Journal of Pediatrics
|September 4, 1998
Summary
Amlodipine once-daily effectively lowers blood pressure in children with hypertension. This study found amlodipine (calcium channel blocker) safe and effective, especially for children also taking cyclosporine.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatrics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, is common for pediatric hypertension but requires frequent dosing.
- Amlodipine, a related drug, has a long duration of action and is effective in adults.
- Data on amlodipine use in children was previously unavailable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of once-daily amlodipine in pediatric patients with hypertension.
- To assess amlodipine's impact on blood pressure, heart rate, and body weight in children.
- To investigate amlodipine's effect on cyclosporine levels in co-administered patients.
Main Methods:
- Amlodipine (5-10 mg once-daily) was administered to 28 hypertensive children.
- Blood pressure, heart rate, and body weight were monitored.
- Cyclosporine levels were assessed in patients receiving both medications.
Main Results:
- Blood pressure significantly decreased by 21/12 mm Hg after 12 weeks of amlodipine treatment.
- Five patients discontinued amlodipine due to side effects (edema, flushing).
- Heart rate and body weight remained unchanged; cyclosporine levels were stable.
Conclusions:
- Once-daily amlodipine demonstrates significant antihypertensive effects in pediatric patients.
- Amlodipine is a safe and effective option for managing childhood hypertension.
- Amlodipine is particularly suitable for pediatric patients also treated with cyclosporine.