Antihypertensive Pharmacotherapy in Hypertensive Patients at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital and Medical College in India

Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of Atenolol and Olmesartan in Stage-1 hypertension (HTN), and the adverse effect profile of Atenolol and Olmesartan in Stage-1 HTN. Methods: A prospective, randomized, open, and parallel study was carried out in 100 patients attending the outpatient department of General Medicine Department MMIMSR, Mullana, Ambala, India with Stage -1 HTN according to joint national committee VII. The patients were randomly divided into two groups to receive Tab. Atenolol 50 mg od (Group A, n=50) and Tab. Olmesartan medoxomil 20 mg (Group B, n=50) od for a total period of 12 weeks with regular follow up every 2 weeks from the baseline. At each visit, blood pressure (BP), heart rate, and adverse effects were evaluated. Laboratory investigations were carried out at baseline and end of the study period. p<0.005 was considered statistically significant. Results: Atenolol and Olmesartan medoxomil both significantly reduce BP and heart rate (p<0.005). Olmesartan medoxomil is more efficacious in reducing BP. Conclusion: Olmesartan medoxomil is a better choice for Stage -1 HTN between the two drugs as it leads to a greater decrement in BP.