Recent research led by the University of Vigo, Spain, has unveiled groundbreaking insights into managing high blood pressure.
This study, part of the Hygia Chronotherapy Trial, is pivotal as it explores how the timing of anti-hypertensive medication intake significantly impacts cardiovascular health.
Key Findings: Bedtime vs. Morning Medication
The study’s primary findings include:
A substantial reduction (45%) in the risk of death or cardiovascular incidents, such as heart attacks and strokes, for patients taking their blood pressure medication at bedtime.
A remarkable decrease in various specific risks, including a 66% reduction in death from heart or blood vessel problems, 44% in heart attacks, 40% in coronary revascularisation, 42% in heart failure, and 49% in stroke risks.
Involving 19,084 patients, the study required participants to take their medication either upon waking or at bedtime. Over an average follow-up of more than six years, patient blood pressure was monitored for 48 hours annually.
This extensive approach makes it the most prolonged study to assess the impact of medication timing on cardiovascular risks.
Implications: Challenging Current Guidelines
This research challenges current hypertension treatment guidelines, which generally do not specify the best time for medication intake. Traditionally, morning medication has been advised to reduce morning blood pressure levels.
However, the Hygia Project’s findings suggest that controlling sleep-time blood pressure is a more critical factor in reducing heart disease risk.
Based on these findings, there could be a significant shift in how doctors recommend anti-hypertensive medication.
The study presents a strong case for evening medication, potentially leading to updated guidelines and practices in managing hypertension.
A New Perspective in Hypertension Management
In conclusion, the University of Vigo’s study opens new avenues in the treatment of high blood pressure, emphasizing the importance of medication timing.
This could revolutionize hypertension management, offering a simple yet effective strategy for significantly reducing cardiovascular risks.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that may increase high blood pressure risk, and drinking green tea could help lower blood pressure.
For more information about high blood pressure, please see recent studies about what to eat or to avoid for high blood pressure, and 12 foods that lower blood pressure.
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