Scientists show that traditional high blood pressure medications may not be the best choice
High blood pressure is a silent challenge that many people struggle with. However, the path to effective treatment remains unclear, as doctors often rely more on their intuition than on scientific evidence.
Unravel the medical mystery
When it comes to starting treatment for high blood pressure, doctors have five main medications to choose from. The predominant choice was ACE inhibitors, which were used in almost half of the cases.
Thiazide diuretics, another type of drug, have received less attention. But are doctors’ preferences supported by evidence?
The eye-opening discovery
A recent study led by researchers at Columbia University addressed exactly this question.
Analyzing the health records of nearly 5 million people who started taking medication for high blood pressure, some interesting patterns emerged:
ACE inhibitors were the first choice in almost 50% of cases, while thiazide diuretics were the first choice in only 17% of cases.
The real kicker? Those who received thiazide diuretics first had a 15% reduced risk of serious heart-related events, such as heart attacks and strokes, compared to those who took ACE inhibitors. These people also reported fewer side effects.
Extrapolating these results suggests that a potentially 3,100 major cardiac complications could have been avoided if all patients had started on thiazide diuretics instead of ACE inhibitors.
Rethink treatment protocols
This research adds a compelling layer to the high blood pressure treatment narrative. It encourages physicians to reconsider their default preference for ACE inhibitors.
Although thiazide diuretics seem to be emerging as promising candidates for the top spot, it’s important to remember that the effects of drugs can vary in different people.
These findings, published in the respected medical journal The Lancet, underscore the need for more research to solidify the benefits of thiazide diuretics and unravel their superior efficacy.
In the ever-evolving field of medical science, such revelations underscore the importance of continuous learning and a flexible approach. Sometimes the most unexpected paths are the key to optimal health outcomes.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about it how diets might help lower high blood pressureAnd 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day keep high blood pressure in check.
For more information on nutrition, see recent studies How tea and coffee affect your risk of high blood pressureand results are displayed This olive oil could lower blood pressure in healthy people.
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