title: Diuretics in hypertension.
abstract: Despite the consistent reduction in the incidence of stroke and coronary events demonstrated in numerous clinical trials in young and elderly hypertensive subjects, the use of diuretics has declined as a first-line therapy in hypertension. The metabolic dose-dependent side effects and the increasing availability of new drugs appear the two main reasons for the decline. Although the neutral metabolic effects and the perception of a more physiological approach to hypertension has been advocated with the newer agents, no definite proof has been reported on the long-term effects on cardiovascular end-points. Many of adverse effects of diuretics can be limited by the use of low doses. For this reason, as well as their efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, diuretics should remain a first-line therapy for hypertensive patients.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Nephrology, University Hospital of Verona, Italy.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Valvo
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: D'Angelo
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Maschio
mesh_terms: D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D004232:Diuretics