Angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonists and their combinations in the treatment of hypertension

Abstract

The pathophysiology of hypertension is not multifactorial in nature, and there is a complex interplay of mechanisms of control and counter-regulatory responses activated by drugs. The problem for clinicians is that it is not really possible to recognise the various clinical phenotypes of hypertension. In other words, the heterogeneity of hypertension remains a clinical problem.¹ Current overwhelming evidence is that the most important treatment concept in the management of hypertension is that treatment should reduce blood pressure to goal levels.² The majority of hypertensive patients will need two or more antihypertensive drugs to control their blood pressure at goal. Conceptually, a strong case can be made for the early use of combination therapy in the treatment of hypertension.³