The effect of hypertension, aging and benidipine on arterial elasticity in elderly hypertensives

Four hundred and 16 subjects (average age, 56.2 years; range, 20–92 years; Men/Women, 207/209) undergoing annual health check-up were studied for the effect of aging and hypertension on arterial compliance or elasticity index, which were measured after a 10 min rest in the supine position using CR-2000. Thirteen additional elderly patients with hypertension were also studied at rest in the supine position 30 min before and after 8 mg benidipine oral administration at the beginning of treatment and then repeatedly studied after a 10 min rest over at least 4–7 weeks to examine the effect of benidipine hydrochloride 8 mg on arterial compliance in a similar manner. Systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure were increased in subjects above 40 years of age. Diastolic blood pressure was also increased up to 60 years of age but after 60 years of age, it was decreased or rather it plateaued. Above 40 years of age, large and small arterial compliance levels were significantly decreased with advancing age. Small arterial compliance was much more decreased than large arterial compliance. In hypertensive subjects, small and large arterial compliance levels were significantly decreased in comparison with normotensive subjects. Benidipine hydrochloride 8 mg was given orally every morning in elderly hypertensive patients for at least 1 month, and blood pressure and arterial compliance were measured every week using CR-2000. Benidipine hydrochloride decreased blood pressure and improved arterial compliance gradually and safely without any adverse effect. Therefore, benidipine hydrochloride is thought to be a useful antihypertensive drug for elderly hypertensives because of its potential to improve arterial function and perhaps arterial properties.