Calcium antagonists and sodium balance: effect of changes in sodium intake and of the addition of a thiazide diuretic on the blood pressure lowering effect of nifedipine.
The acute blood pressure lowering effect of nifedipine as a capsule was enhanced by a high-sodium intake in both normotensive and hypertensive subjects. In a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study, the longer-term effect of nifedipine as a tablet in hypertensives was also greater on a high sodium intake than on a normal or low sodium diet. In hypertensive patients who were already on regular treatment with nifedipine, the addition of a thiazide diuretic for 1 month did not cause any significant additional fall in blood pressure despite untoward metabolic side effects. These findings, therefore, strengthen the view that there is a link between the blood pressure lowering activity of calcium entry antagonists and the state of sodium balance.
Cappuccio
F P
FP
Department of Medicine, Charing Cross & Westminster Medical School, London, England.
Markandu
N D
ND
MacGregor
G A
GA
D000328:Adult; D001539:Bendroflumethiazide / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001794:Blood Pressure; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009543:Nifedipine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012982:Sodium, Dietary / Q000494:pharmacology*
D012982:Sodium, Dietary; D001539:Bendroflumethiazide; D009543:Nifedipine