ACE inhibitors and calcium channel antagonists the safest bets for paediatric hypertension

Although the detection, evaluation, and treatment of paediatric hypertension have improved, many patients continue to be undertreated. The most commonly prescribed antihypertensive agents are ACE inhibitors and calcium channel antagonists. Diuretics are generally used as adjunct therapies. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists are under investigation for use in paediatric patients, and may prove useful for those with chronic cough secondary to ACE inhibitors. Other agents are less commonly used due to their adverse event profiles. © 2005 Adis Data Information BV. All rights reserved.