Serum and Urine Electrolyte Profiles during Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide Combination Therapy in Nigerian Patients with Essential Hypertension

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate changes in electrolyte profiles during combination treatment with amlodipine (AML) and hydrochlorothiazide (HCZ) in hypertensive Nigerians. Study Design: Randomized, open-label, prospective, two-centre, outpatient, 48-week study. Methodology: We enrolled 90 male and female Nigerians aged 31-86 years with uncomplicated essential hypertension (blood pressure [BP] > 160/90 ≤ 180/120mmHg). Patients, who were 30 each (15males [M] and 15females [F]) in AML, HCZ and AML-HCZ groups, were treated, respectively, with 5mg AML for 6 weeks (wks) and the dose increased to 10mg till wk 12 (monotherapy) after which HCZ 25mg was added; HCZ 25mg till wk 6 (monotherapy) after which AML 5-10mg was added; and AML 5-10mg +

Clinical Adverse Events Profile during Combination Therapy with Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide in Hypertensive Nigerians

“…Combination therapy using lower doses of different classes of antihypertensive drugs has been recommended to facilitate early attainment of goal BP, in stage 2 hypertension and also in patients with comorbid risk factors such as diabetes, heart failure and chronic kidney disease or when BP ≥ 20/10 mmHg above goal (6)(7). Clinical evidence showed superior efficacy of such dual or multiple combinations over monotherapies, with reduced morbidity and mortality particularly with respect to stroke and coronary heart disease as well as modest adverse events being reported (8)(9)(10).…”

“…AML and HCV are widely used for the treatment of hypertension and their efficacy as well as tolerability has been well documented (8)(9)(10). However, information is scarce regarding the adverse events associated with dual combination therapy of AML and HCZ in hypertensive Nigerians.…”