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Abstract
In this study, 953 patients (48 percent men) more than 60 years old with mild to moderate
hypertension (class I or II) were included. After a two-week wash-out period, a starting
dosage of captopril—12.5 mg twice a day—was given. Patients were examined after one
and three weeks and, subsequently, at monthly intervals for a total period of four
months. The dosage was adjusted to a maximum of 50 mg twice a day plus, when needed,
25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide per day. Thirty-two patients were lost to follow-up,
10 withdrew because of inadequate control of blood pressure, and only 21 (2 percent)
dropped out because of side effects. Mean blood pressure decreased from 184/104 to
152/87 mm Hg. The lowest dosage (25 mg a day) was sufficient to control blood pressure
in 15 percent of patients, 31 percent needed 50 mg a day, and 24 percent required
100 mg a day. Hydrochlorothiazide was added to the captopril regimen in 30 percent.
No substantial changes in biochemical variables or electrocardiographic results were
observed. “Quality of life” (judged as physical fitness, positive well being, mood,
and sexual desire) remarkably improved.
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© 1988 Published by Elsevier Inc.
