Protocol for a randomised controlled trial of telemonitoring and self-management in the control of hypertension: Telemonitoring and self-management in hypertension. [ISRCTN17585681]

478 patients aged 35-85 with poorly controlled treated hypertension (blood pressure > 140/90) managed in primary care. Key exclusions: inability to self-monitor, postural hypotension (systolic drop >20 mmHg), on more than two antihypertensive medications, terminal disease, or blood pressure not managed by their General Practitioner.

Self-management consisting of daily self-monitoring of blood pressure for the first week of each month with electronic transmission of readings (telemonitoring), and self-titration of antihypertensive medication using an individually tailored two-step algorithm based on the readings.

Usual care consisting of periodic visits to the General Practitioner and/or nurse for blood pressure measurement and/or adjustment of medication at the discretion of the GP.

Change in mean systolic blood pressure (mmHg) between baseline and each follow up point (6 months and 12 months), measured in the surgery by the research team.surrogate