Expert Opinion on the Treatment Options and Comorbidities of Indian Hypertensive Patients

Objective: To investigate expert opinions regarding the preferred therapy options for hypertensive patients in an Indian clinical setting, with a specific focus on the prescription practice of cilnidipine.

Methodology: The cross-sectional study was conducted using a 25-question survey to gather insights from specialists regarding their perspectives on prescribing cilnidipine for hypertensive patients. The survey questions focused on the experts’ choice of prescribing an antihypertensive medication for hypertensive patients with comorbid conditions.

Results: The survey collected data from 612 respondents. Nearly half of the respondents (43.79% and 42.97%) reported that individuals with systolic blood pressure (SBP) ranging from 140-159 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ranging from 90-99 mm Hg, as well as those with SBP ranging from 160-179 mm Hg and DBP ranging from 100-109 mm Hg, are newly diagnosed with hypertension. According to the experts, the most common comorbidities among hypertensive patients were chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and obesity. Calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) were recommended as the preferred antihypertensive drug. Among CCBs, cilnidipine was favoured by a majority of the respondents for patients with renal problems, as it not only provided continuous BP control but also demonstrated benefits in reducing cardiovascular risk, pedal edema, and ensuring renal safety. Telmisartan, chlorthalidone, olmesartan, and other drug combinations were frequently mentioned as preferred adjuncts to cilnidipine at a dosage of 10 mg.

Conclusion: The surveyed experts recommend CCBs as the preferred antihypertensive drugs. Cilnidipine, among the CCBs, is the preferred choice for patients with renal problems due to its ability to provide continuous BP control and its additional benefits in reducing cardiovascular risk, managing pedal edema, and ensuring renal safety.