[Therapy of arterial hypertension in the elderly. Characteristics of hypertension in aging--use of calcium antagonists].
In the elderly patient (from 60-65 years) elevated blood pressure (160/99 mmHg or more under conditions of rest) is a risk factor that requires treatment. This also applies to isolated systolic hypertension (systolic BP > or = 160 mmHg at a diastolic pressure < 90 mmHg). Individually tailored antihypertensive treatment can clearly improve the quality of life and prognosis of the elderly hypertensive. In view of the importance of increased peripheralvascular resistance, in the elderly patient, the anti-hypertensive concept should always include a vasodilator. This requirement makes calcium antagonists, in particular those of the dihydropyridine type, when they are well tolerated, highly suitable for treating hypertension in the elderly. An added advantage is the fact that there are virtually no major contraindications. In this connection, substances that exert a uniform effect over 24 hours should be given preference (advantages: single dosage, better tolerability). In addition, the dihydropyridines (calcium antagonists of the nifedipine type) can readily be together with other agents when combination treatment necessary.
Innere Medizin I Krankenhaus Neukölln, Berlin.
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FW
Lohmann
D000368:Aged; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors
D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers
Therapie der arteriellen Hypertonie beim älteren Menschen. Besonderheiten der Hypertonie im Alter--Einsatz von Kalziumantagonisten.