The efficacy and safety of diuretics in treating hypertension
Article Abstract:
Treating hypertension using a low-dose thiazide diuretic plus a potassium-sparing agent appears to be a safe, effective and relatively inexpensive method of reducing the incidence of stroke and heart attack. Hypertension is persistent high blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics are drugs that promote the excretion of urine, which may contribute to potassium depletion. An abnormally low level of potassium is associated with heart rhythm disturbances. Adding a potassium-sparing diuretic to thiazide diuretic therapy has been shown to decrease the risk of sudden death. Thiazide diuretics do not appear to adversely affect blood cholesterol or blood glucose levels, which could also contribute to coronary heart disease. Other drugs for hypertension, such as beta blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, may be appropriate for patients with additional medical problems, but they are more costly than thiazide diuretics.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1995
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Impairment of Endothelial Functions by Acute Hyperhomocysteinemia and Reversal by Antioxidant Vitamins
Article Abstract:
Elevated blood levels of homocysteine appear to activate blood clotting and other changes in the lining of blood vessels. This may explain the link between elevated homocysteine and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. At three different times, researchers gave 20 healthy volunteers fruit juice alone, fruit juice with methionine, and fruit juice with methionine after taking antioxidant vitamins. Methionine is converted to homocysteine in the body. Methionine increased homocysteine levels and also increased blood clotting and other changes that could increase the risk of heart disease. Antioxidant vitamins eliminated this response.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1999
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