ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:To observe the effects of gelodipine on plasma ghrelin level and endothelial function of blood vessels in patients with essential hypertension.METHODS:A total of 77 patients with essential hypertension were randomly divided into trial group(n=45)and control group (n=32).Both groups were given low sodium diet,proper exercise, weight reduction and oral diuretics,while the trial group was assigned to receive felodipine 5mg q.d additionally.The course of treatment was 8wk.Before and after the treatment,plasma levels of ghrelin and nitrous oxide(NO),endothelin(ET-1),and brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation(FMD)function were observed.RESULTS:Plasma levels of ghrelin and NO,and FMD were significantly increased (P0.05).CONCLUSION:Felodipine can increase plasma Ghrelin level meanwhile improving endothelial function of blood vessels in patients with essential hypertension.