Dose titration for LVH regression in hypertensive rats: do antihypertensive classes differ?

ABSTRACT

Left ventricular hypertrophy [LVH] is a serious condition associated with development of coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, heart failure and sudden cardiac death. This work was assigned to compare three antihypertensive drugs, namely ramipril, losartan and atenolol for a goal beyond blood pressure control i.e. reduction of LVH. LVH, induced in rats by fructose feeding for four weeks, was reduced significantly by the antihypertensive doses of the three drugs. Doubling the dose produced more significant LVH reduction with no more significant drop in blood pressure by ramipril and losartan, while atenolol produced no more significant LVH regression despite the more significant drop in blood pressure and bradycardia. It can be concluded that ramipril and losartan are more superior for LVH regression and more tolerable than atenolol since they have benefits beyond blood pressure control by blocking the rennin angiotensin system. So, we recommend dose titration of ramipril or losartan to the most maximum tolerable dose in hypertensive patients with LVH for reducing cardiovascular risks by regression of LVH