(1) In trials involving hypertensive non diabetic patients under 65, some
diuretics and betablockers have prevented
strokes, without conferring protection from coronary events or death. In one trial
captopril had an effect comparable to that of
diuretics or betablockers in terms of overall cardiovascular prevention, but was a little less effective in preventing
strokes. (2) In trials involving hypertensive subjects over 65, some
diuretics and betablockers have reduced the risk of
stroke, coronary events,
heart failure, and death. In one trial a
diuretic was superior to a betablocker in terms of preventive efficacy and adverse effects.
Nitrendipine, in combination with other
antihypertensive drugs, prevented
strokes in one trial. (3) In a trial involving hypertensive diabetic patients,
captopril and
atenolol reduced the risk of
stroke,
heart failure and worsening of
retinal disease, without preventing coronary events or death. In two trials coronary events were more frequent on
dihydropyridine than on an
angiotensin-coverting-
enzyme (
ACE) inhibitor. (4) In one trial a
diuretic reduced the risk of relapse after
stroke, even in patients without severe
hypertension.