Clinical study of the month. The CALM study assessing the combination of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and an angiotensin II receptor antagonist in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy
Philips, J.C.; Weekers, L.; Scheen, A.J.
Revue Medicale de Liege 56(2): 126-128
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0370-629X PMID: 11294048 Document Number: 531740
The main objective of the CALM (Candesartan And Lisinopril Microalbuminuria) study is to assess the effect of a dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system--using both an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I) and an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker--in patients with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and microalbuminuria. The study included 200 patients randomized to receive candesartan 16 mg or lisinopril 20 mg for 12 weeks, followed by 12 weeks of the same monotherapy or a combination treatment. Main outcomes are the reduction of microalbuminuria and blood pressure. All three of the treatments are effective, but the dual blockade is respectively 18%, 8 mmHg and 5 mmHg more effective in reducing microalbuminuria, systolic and diastolic blood pressure. No comparison is made between this "new" association and the more frequently used biotherapy (i.e. ACE-I plus thiazidic diuretic) and therefore its usefulness in regular practice is still to be determined.