Objective To compare the effecacy and
acceptability of captopril(C), perindopril(P) and nifedipine(N) in the treatment
of elderly
hypertensive ventricular hypertrophy. Methods Ninety four patients were divided into 3 groups:
C (n=30), P (n=32 ) and N (n=32); these drugs were given to the 3 groups respectively for 3
months with gradual increase of dosage after 2 weeks of placebo. Blood pressure (BP),
echocardiogrophic left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and contractive function, urine albumine
excretion rate (AER), plasma biochemical parameters were measured at baseline, before and
each month after the drug administration. The drug side effects were recorded. Results After
the drug administration, BP were reduced significantly in all the three groups with no difference
among them, LVMI
decreased in the C and P but not in N group. Plasma potassium levels(K+)
increased in the C and P but not in N group. AER decreased in the P but not in the other groups.
The incidence of side effects was highest in N group. Conclusions BP may be well controlled
by each of the three drugs; P and C improved the regression of LVH and increased K+. P
improved the renal function. There were no changes in LVMI, AER and K+ in the N group,but
more side effects were found.