ACE inhibitors are better than diuretics for treatment of hypertension in the elderly

Abstract

Despite similar reductions in blood pressure, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors demonstrate lower combined rates of cardiovascular events or all-cause mortality in elderly hypertensive patients compared with diuretics. This benefit is most evident in men. These results may differ from those of the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack (ALLHAT) trial because that study included younger patients, had a greater representation of patients with African ancestry, used different brands of medication, and had a slightly different primary outcome. Despite these differences, both treatments offer an inexpensive means for reducing blood pressure and preventing hypertension-related complications.