Characteristics and dosage of antihypertensive medication
Yokota, K.; Shimada, K.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine 69(11): 1963-1968
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0047-1852 PMID: 22111315 Document Number: 654208
Several classes of antihypertensive drugs are currently available. Among them, diuretics, Ca antagonists, ACE inhibitors, ARBs and beta blockers are currently established as a first line drug because of its effectiveness for blood pressure lowering as well as prevention of cardiovascular diseases with a long-term use. Each class of antihypertensive drugs has a unique pharmacological property leading to the advantages and disadvantages in the various clinical settings. Furthermore, individual drug in the same class shows a unique pharmaokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. Hence, selection of antihypertensive drugs should be individualized, taking into account various factors including age and comorbid conditions. The characteristics of specific antihypertensive drugs, the setting in which they are most useful and the contraindications to use will be reviewed here. From the viewpoint of the strict blood pressure control throughout 24 hour, practical considerations related to dosing and frequency will also be discussed.