Serum Triglyceride Lowering Effect of Cilnidipine in Patients With Essential Hypertension

BACKGROUND: Many epidemiological studies have established the relationship between hypertension and dyslipidemia. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are one of the first-line drugs for newly diagnosed patients with essential hypertension. Cilnidipine as a newer CCB acting by blocking both L- and N-type calcium channels possesses additional beneficial effects apart from lowering blood pressure (BP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of cilnidipine in patients with essential hypertension with borderline dyslipidemia and its effects on lipid profile. METHODS: Out of 45 enrolled patients, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria, only 37 completed the study. Cilnidipine was started at 10 mg/day, and then adjusted to 5 - 20 mg/day to achieve the target blood pressure. RESULTS: After 12 weeks of study, patients showed significant reduction in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean BP, heart rate and serum triglyceride level from baseline values (P < 0.00). CONCLUSION: In clinical setting where both hypertension and hypertriglyceridemia exist, cilnidipine can be a promising drug of choice.