Abstract

Amlodipine and valsartan: calcium channel blockers/angiotensin II receptor blockers combination for hypertension

Author(s): Sverre E Kjeldsen, Tonje A Aksnes, Alex de la Sierra and Luis M Ruilope

Despite the availability of numerous antihypertensive agents, many patients with hypertension fail to achieve the blood pressure goals set out in current guidelines. These patients remain at a high risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and require effective treatment options to reduce that risk. Current guidelines recognize that many patients require multiple antihypertensive agents to achieve blood pressure goals. Numerous combination therapies are available, although there is currently no available fixed-dose alternative that combines the benefits of angiotensin receptor blockers and calcium channel blockers. This article explores the rationale for using multiple-mechanism therapy with the angiotensin receptor blocker valsartan and the calcium channel blocker amlodipine and discusses the clinical data supporting this novel approach to the treatment of hypertension.