A major study conducted over 17 years and involving more than 730,000 people with high blood pressure has revealed new findings about two commonly used medications: chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide.
The research was led by scientists at Columbia University and offers important insights for doctors and patients managing high blood pressure.
Both medications are often prescribed to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks, heart failure hospitalizations, and strokes. While both have been proven effective, the study found that chlorthalidone may come with more side effects than hydrochlorothiazide.
One of the key differences is the risk of developing low potassium levels, a condition called hypokalemia. Potassium is a mineral that helps control heart and muscle function. Too little potassium can cause serious problems like abnormal heart rhythms, confusion, kidney failure, and even increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
In this study, 6.3% of people taking chlorthalidone developed hypokalemia, compared to just 1.9% of those taking hydrochlorothiazide. That means the risk of low potassium was nearly three times higher for people on chlorthalidone.
The researchers also found that people taking chlorthalidone had a greater risk of other problems, such as electrolyte imbalances and kidney issues. These risks were present even when patients were given lower doses of the drug.
These findings have raised questions about whether chlorthalidone should continue to be recommended as strongly as it has been in treatment guidelines. They also suggest that doctors need to monitor patients more closely when prescribing this medication.
Managing high blood pressure is very important. If it’s not treated properly, it can lead to serious health issues like stroke, heart disease, and early death. Doctors usually recommend a combination of treatments that include medication, lifestyle changes, and regular doctor visits.
In addition to taking medicine, people with high blood pressure can improve their health by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, cutting down on alcohol, quitting smoking, and finding ways to reduce stress. Checking blood pressure at home can also help patients keep their condition under control.
This study highlights the need for personalized treatment plans. Not every medication works the same way for every person, and it’s important to consider both the benefits and possible side effects. The research, published in JAMA Internal Medicine and led by George Hripcsak, offers valuable guidance for improving how high blood pressure is treated.
In conclusion, while both chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide help manage blood pressure, this long-term study suggests that hydrochlorothiazide may be safer for many patients. Doctors and patients should work together to find the best treatment plan, taking into account individual risks and needs.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies that black licorice could cause dangerous high blood pressure, and this common plant nutrient could help reduce high blood pressure.
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