Heart Foundation releases new hypertension guidelines
The Heart Foundation’s Guide to Management of Hypertension 2008 is now available.
The updated guide addresses new evidence and recommendations from international guidelines released since the publication of the last guide in 2004, including new recommendations for first line therapy in uncomplicated hypertension and revised treatment targets for various patient populations.
It provides consolidated information on the diagnosis, management and follow up of people with raised blood pressure, making the guidelines more GP user friendly.
With blood pressure the most frequently encountered problem in general practice, GPs are reminded to first measure blood pressure in both arms and thereafter to use the arm with the higher reading.
Some of the key changes include the use of beta blockers, which the guide recommends should not be used as first line therapy, and thiazides, which should only be used as first line therapy in patients aged 65 and older.
“This follows the results of many international studies, which showed significant evidence of the incidence of new onset diabetes in patients taking the drugs,” said Associate Professor Karen Duggan, chair of the Heart Foundation’s BP Advisory Group.
“The most effective combination is an ACE inhibitor or ARB plus a calcium channel blocker.”
In line with international guidelines, blood pressure targets have been lowered from 130/85mmgHg to 130/80mmgHg for patients with coronary heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, proteinuria and a history of stroke.
Health professionals will find the 2008 guide easier to use with quick access to key recommendations and summarised treatment algorithms.
The Guide has been endorsed by the:
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
- National Prescribing Service Ltd
- Internal Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand
- Kidney Health Australia
- National Stroke Foundation
The guide and its associated resources – including a ‘quick reference guide’ for busy health professionals – can be accessed at the Heart Foundation’s website or by contacting their Health Information Service on 1300 36 27 87 or email heartline@heartfoundation.org.au.
