Combined pharmacotherapy practical issues based on actual guidelines Review article
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Abstract
Most patients with hypertension require 2 or more agents from different classes to achieve BP control. Several fixed-dose combinations are available, often combining agents that target the renin–angiotensin system like angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium channel blockers (CCBs). At low doses, these combinations may have greater efficacy and better tolerability than the respective high-dose monotherapies. The most recent estimates of the cost of hypertension have been greatly reduced, presumably by the fact that many antihypertensive drugs are now available as generic formulations. Generic antihypertensive drugs are likely to be safe and effective, may increase the probability of medication availability and adherence for many patients. While this economic trend is presumably beneficial to society as a whole, questions remain about: 1) the definition of “equivalence” to approve a generic drug, 2) whether generic antihypertensive drugs are effective in lowering blood pressure and reducing adverse cardiovascular outcomes, 3) whether availability of less expensive, generic drugs impact patient adherence and 4) patient and prescriber preferences regarding generic vs. branded drug formulations. This review summarizes the current guidelines of the Polish Society of Hypertension on combined pharmacotherapy and focuses on fixed-dose combinations and some issues related to generic drugs.
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