Combination therapy with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and a calcium channel blocker

Abstract

More than 1 medication is required in many hypertensive patients to reach blood pressure (BP) goals, and initial treatment with 2 agents has been recommended for patients whose BP level is >20/10 mm Hg above target. Diuretics reduce BP levels and the incidence of target organ complications and together with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers, which are recommended in patients with comorbid cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, or diabetes, are effective antihypertensive combinations. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are also effective antihypertensive agents, and evidence suggests that a CCB/ACEI combination is well tolerated and also decreases the risk of cardiovascular and renal disease. Some evidence suggests that this combination may improve endothelial function more than either agent alone, and its use could potentially lead to better cardiovascular outcomes than a diuretic/ACEI or diuretic/ARB combination. The ongoing Avoiding Cardiovascular Events Through Combination Therapy in Patients Living With Systolic Hypertension (ACCOMPLISH) trial compares these 2 effective combinations (ie, an ACEI/diuretic and ACEI/CCB) as initial treatment for reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in older high-risk hypertensive patients. The results of this trial, when reported, should help to clarify the relative benefits of these different therapies.