A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of amlodipine in children with hypertension

A Multivariate prediction model for amlodipine therapeutic efficacy in pediatric primary hypertension

Background

There are currently no biomarker-based prediction models for amlodipine therapeutic efficacy in pediatric hypertension. This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers and establish a biomarker-based model for predicting amlodipine therapeutic efficacy in pediatric primary hypertension (PH).

Methods

From January 2022 to December 2023, 165 children and adolescents with PH prescribed amlodipine were recruited at our department for a prospective observational study. Patients were grouped into Responders and Non-responders after one month treatment. The baseline data in the two groups were analyzed to identify variables associated with amlodipine treatment responsiveness; furthermore, a nomogram prediction model was established based on those potential predictors derived from multivariate regression analysis. This model's discrimination and calibration were evaluated by a series of statistical methods and internal validation was done using the bootstrap sampling method (1000 resamples).

Results

Eighty-nine patients responded to amlodipine while 76 did not. After statistical adjustment, 4 variables were found to be independently associated with therapeutic efficacy, including hyperinsulinemia (OR = 3.000, 95% CI: 1.409-6.386, p  = 0.004), insulin resistance (OR = 2.354, 95% CI: 1.032-5.370, p = 0.042), the baseline plasma Endothelin-1 level (OR = 0.627, 95% CI: 0.532-0.740, p < 0.001) and amlodipine dosages (OR = 1.743, 95% CI: 1.400-2.169, p <0.001). Compared to the baseline model, the full model with the four variables had a good calibration with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.967 (95% CI: 0.945-0.990), yielding a sensitivity and a specificity of 91.0% and 92.1%, respectively; the clinical decision curve showed a positive net benefit. Additionally, a nomogram model was established based on the four variables and evaluated by bootstrap internal validation with the c-statistic of 0.865 and the calibration curve being close to the ideal line (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

A nomogram model with high predictive value for amlodipine therapeutic efficacy in pediatric PH was established. This model may be potentially applied to guide the selection of amlodipine for the treatment of pediatric PH.

Clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of hypertension for Korean children and adolescents: the Korean Working Group of Pediatric Hypertension

Pediatric hypertension (HTN) is a significant, growing health concern worldwide and also in Korea. Diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of HTN in Korean children and adolescents are uncertain due to limitations in using the current international guidelines, since the recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and European Society of Hypertension (ESH) guidelines differ. Furthermore, these are guidelines for Western youth, who are racially and ethnically different from Koreans. In addition, reference blood pressure values for all pediatric age groups, which are essential for the diagnosis of HTN according to these two guidelines, are absent in Korea. Therefore, HTN guidelines for Korean children and adolescents should be established. The Korean Working Group of Pediatric Hypertension established clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of HTN in Korean children and adolescents. These guidelines were based on reported clinical evidence, expert recommendations, and AAP and ESH guidelines. The characteristics of Korean youth and the Korean medical and insurance system were considered during the establishment of the guidelines. By providing recommendations suitable for Korean youth, these guidelines will help in the prevention and management of childhood HTN, thus relieving the burden of cardiovascular disease in adulthood in Korea.

Plasma calcitonin gene-related peptide and nitric oxide predict therapeutic response to amlodipine in pediatric primary hypertension

Background

There is a lack of suitable predictive markers for assessing the efficacy of amlodipine in treating children with primary hypertension. This study aimed to explore whether plasma calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and nitric oxide (NO) could predict the effectiveness of amlodipine in pediatric primary hypertension.

Methods

This study enrolled 74 children and adolescents with primary hypertension who were prescribed amlodipine monotherapy, and after 4 weeks of treatment, they were divided into responders and non-responders according to blood pressure. Baseline data differences between the two groups were analyzed, followed by binary logistic regression to assess the correlation between significant variables and therapeutic efficacy. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the predictive efficacy, and the nomogram model was established to predict therapeutic response to amlodipine.

Results

The responders exhibited lower body mass index, C-peptide and plasma CGRP levels, and higher NO levels compared to the non-responders (p < 0.05). Multivariable logistic analysis revealed that plasma CGRP and NO were independently associated with the therapeutic response to amlodipine, showing a higher predictive performance when used in combination (AUC: 0.814, 95% CI 0.714-0.914) with a predictive sensitivity of 86.5% and specificity of 70.1%. The nomogram model displayed good calibration, and the decision curve analysis indicated this model led to net benefits in a wide range of threshold probability.

Conclusion

CGRP and NO may be valuable biomarkers for predicting amlodipine effectiveness in the treatment of pediatric primary hypertension, while the nomogram model indicates excellent predictive value.

Efficacy of fosinopril and amlodipine in pediatric primary hypertension: a single-center observational study

Objective

Fosinopril and amlodipine are commonly prescribed as first-line pharmacotherapeutic agents for pediatric hypertension, but there is a lack of comparative studies regarding the efficacy of these two drugs. We aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of fosinopril and amlodipine monotherapy in pediatric primary hypertension.

Methods

This was a single-center, bidirectional observational study. A total of 175 children and adolescents with primary hypertension receiving antihypertensive monotherapy from July 2020 to February 2023 were enrolled. According to antihypertensive drugs, they were divided into the fosinopril group (n = 96) and the amlodipine group (n = 79). Subgroup analysis was performed to compare the efficacy of the two groups in terms of blood pressure (BP) control rates and reductions following a 4-week treatment.

Results

After 4 weeks of treatment, both groups achieved significant reductions in systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) by more than 18 mmHg and 6 mmHg, respectively, with BP control rates of 61.5% in the fosinopril group and 59.5% in the amlodipine group, revealing no significant differences in the antihypertensive efficacy between the two groups except for DBP control rate (FDR adjusted P > 0.05). Further subsequent subgroup analyses revealed that the reductions in SBP and DBP in the fosinopril group were significantly greater than those in the amlodipine group in patients of females and hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia (FDR adjusted P < 0.05), and there was a trend of difference, although not significant, in patients with central obesity and insulin resistance (IR) (FDR adjusted 0.05 < P ≤ 0.1). However, there were no significant differences in treatment efficacy in patients without these characteristics. Furthermore, hypertriglyceridemia did not exhibit a significant association with the difference in treatment efficacy between the two medications (FDR adjusted P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Fosinopril and amlodipine monotherapy were both effective in pediatric primary hypertension during a short-term follow-up. Fosinopril may be particularly effective in reducing BP in hypertensive patients of females, central obesity, IR, and hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia. These findings indicate that optimizing antihypertensive medication selection based on the individualized characteristics of children with hypertension may improve the efficacy of antihypertensive treatment.

Narrative update of clinical trials with antihypertensive drugs in children and adolescents

INTRODUCTION

To date, our knowledge on antihypertensive pharmacological treatment in children and adolescents is still limited because there are few randomized clinical trials (CTs), hampering appropriate management. The objective was to perform a narrative review of the most relevant aspects of clinical trials carried out in primary and secondary hypertension.

METHODS

Studies published in PubMed with the following descriptors: clinical trial, antihypertensive drug, children, adolescents were selected. A previous Cochrane review of 21 randomized CTs pointed out the difficulty that statistical analysis could not assess heterogeneity because there were not enough data. A more recent meta-analysis, that applied more stringent inclusion criteria and selected 13 CTs, also concluded that heterogeneity, small sample size, and short follow-up time, as well as the absence of studies comparing drugs of different classes, limit the utility.

RESULTS

In the presented narrative review, including 30 studies, there is a paucity of CTs focusing only on children with primary or secondary, mainly renoparenchymal, hypertension. In trials on angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and diuretics, a significant reduction of both SBP and DBP in mixed cohorts of children with primary and secondary hypertension was achieved. However, few studies assessed the effect of antihypertensive drugs on hypertensive organ damage.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the increasing prevalence and undertreatment of hypertension in this age group, innovative solutions including new design, such as 'n-of-1', and optimizing the use of digital health technologies could provide more precise and faster information about the efficacy of each antihypertensive drug class and the potential benefits according to patient characteristics.

Antihypertensives in Children and Adolescents

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review target organ outcomes and current pharmacologic treatment options for children and adolescents with hypertension.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is an increased prevalence of pediatric hypertension. Following the 2017 AAP clinical practice guidelines, there is a growing body of literature illustrating the association between pediatric hypertension and end organ damage, though few studies looking at long-term outcomes. There is also new data to support the use of n-of-1 trials to identify the best antihypertensive therapy for an individual. Pediatric hypertension is increasing in prevalence and is associated with end organ damage. Treatment of hypertensive children has been shown to reverse end organ damage. Due to the lack of large, randomized trials assessing antihypertensive classes against one another, n-of-1 studies may serve as a viable and safe option to optimize patient care.

L-type calcium channel blocker use and proteinuria among children with chronic kidney diseases

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is common among children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), and dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (dhCCBs) are frequently used as treatment. The impact of dhCCBs on proteinuria in children with CKD is unclear.

METHODS

Data from 722 participants in the Chronic Kidney Disease in Children (CKiD) longitudinal cohort with a median age of 12 years were used to assess the association between dhCCBs and log transformed urine protein/creatinine levels as well as blood pressure control measured at annual visits. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi) and angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) use was evaluated as an effect measure modifier.

RESULTS

Individuals using dhCCBs had 18.8% higher urine protein/creatinine levels compared to those with no history of dhCCB or ACEi and ARB use. Among individuals using ACEi and ARB therapy concomitantly, dhCCB use was not associated with an increase in proteinuria. Those using dhCCBs had higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of dhCCBs in children with CKD and hypertension is associated with higher levels of proteinuria and was not found to be associated with improved blood pressure control.

Hypertension in Children and Adolescents: A Position Statement From a Panel of Multidisciplinary Experts Coordinated by the French Society of Hypertension

Hypertension is much less common in children than in adults. The group of experts decided to perform a review of the literature to draw up a position statement that could be used in everyday practice. The group rated recommendations using the GRADE approach. All children over the age of 3 years should have their blood pressure measured annually. Due to the lack of data on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality associated with blood pressure values, the definition of hypertension in children is a statistical value based on the normal distribution of blood pressure in the paediatric population, and children and adolescents are considered as having hypertension when their blood pressure is greater than or equal to the 95th percentile. Nevertheless, it is recommended to use normative blood pressure tables developed according to age, height and gender, to define hypertension. Measuring blood pressure in children can be technically challenging and several measurement methods are listed here. Regardless of the age of the child, it is recommended to carefully check for a secondary cause of hypertension as in 2/3 of cases it has a renal or cardiac origin. The care pathway and principles of the therapeutic strategy are described here.

Screening for Hypertension in Children and Adolescents: Updated Evidence Report and Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force

IMPORTANCE

Childhood hypertension can result in adverse outcomes during adulthood; identifying and treating primary and secondary childhood hypertension may reduce such risks.

OBJECTIVE

To update the evidence on screening and treatment of hypertension in childhood and adolescence for the US Preventive Services Task Force.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Cochrane Library, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, EMBASE, and trial registries through September 3, 2019; bibliographies from retrieved articles, experts, and surveillance of the literature through October 6, 2020.

STUDY SELECTION

Fair- or good-quality English-language studies evaluating diagnostic accuracy of blood pressure screening; cohort studies assessing the association of hypertension in childhood and adolescence with blood pressure or other intermediate outcomes in adulthood; randomized clinical trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses of pharmacological and lifestyle interventions.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two reviewers independently assessed titles/abstracts and full-text articles, extracted data, and assessed study quality; the evidence was synthesized qualitatively.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Sensitivity, specificity, and measures of association between childhood and adulthood blood pressure; reduction of childhood blood pressure; adverse effects of treatments.

RESULTS

Forty-two studies from 43 publications were included (N>12 400). No studies evaluated the benefits or harms of screening and the effect of treating childhood hypertension on outcomes in adulthood. One study reported a sensitivity of 0.82 and a specificity of 0.70 for 2 office-based blood pressure measurements. Twenty observational studies suggested a significant association between childhood hypertension and abnormal blood pressure in adulthood (odds ratios, 1.1-4.5; risk ratios, 1.45-3.60; hazard ratios, 2.8-3.2). Thirteen placebo-controlled RCTs and 1 meta-analysis assessed reductions in systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure from pharmacological treatments. Pooled reductions of SBP were -4.38 mm Hg (95% CI, -7.27 to -2.16) for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and -3.07 mm Hg (95% CI, -4.99 to -1.44) for angiotensin receptor blockers. Candesartan reduced SBP by -6.56 mm Hg (P < .001; n = 240). β-Blockers, calcium channel blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists did not achieve significant reductions over 2 to 4 weeks. SBP was significantly reduced by exercise over 8 months (-4.9 mm Hg, P ≤ .05; n = 69), by dietary approaches to stop hypertension over 3 months (-2.2 mm Hg, P < .01; n = 57), and by a combination of drug treatment and lifestyle interventions over 6 months (-7.6 mm Hg; P < .001; n = 95). Low-salt diet did not achieve reductions of blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Observational studies indicate an association between hypertension in childhood and hypertension in adulthood. However, the evidence is inconclusive whether the diagnostic accuracy of blood pressure measurements is adequate for screening asymptomatic children and adolescents in primary care.

Antihypertensive agents: a long way to safe drug prescribing in children

Recently updated clinical guidelines have highlighted the gaps in our understanding and management of pediatric hypertension. With increased recognition and diagnosis of pediatric hypertension, the use of antihypertensive agents is also likely to increase. Drug selection to treat hypertension in the pediatric patient population remains challenging. This is primarily due to a lack of large, well-designed pediatric safety and efficacy trials, limited understanding of pharmacokinetics in children, and unknown risk of prolonged exposure to antihypertensive therapies. With newer legislation providing financial incentives for conducting clinical trials in children, along with publication of pediatric-focused guidelines, literature available for antihypertensive agents in pediatrics has increased over the last 20 years. The objective of this article is to review the literature for safety and efficacy of commonly prescribed antihypertensive agents in pediatrics. Thus far, the most data to support use in children was found for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), and calcium channel blockers (CCB). Several gaps were noted in the literature, particularly for beta blockers, vasodilators, and the long-term safety profile of antihypertensive agents in children. Further clinical trials are needed to guide safe and effective prescribing in the pediatric population.

Arterial Hypertension in Children

Pharmacological treatment of arterial hypertension in children is mainly based on individual experience, but there is evidence that blocking the angiotensin system reduces systolic and diastolic blood when compared to placebo, and these drugs are safe to use for a short duration, also in children under 6 years of age. Blocking the angiotensin system either by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or by antagonizing the angiotensin 1 receptor is effective, but did not display a consistent dose-response relationship with escalating doses, but the effective doses are known. Calcium channel antagonists are effective antihypertensives in children, but the evidence is limited. Based on small-sized studies, beta-blockers modestly reduce systolic blood pressure, but have no significant effect on diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo. They act in combination to antagonize reflex tachycardia induced by vasodilators. The most commonly used antihypertensive agents are safe to use in short-term studies.

Use of amlodipine oral solution for the treatment of hypertension in children

Background Amlodipine is a widely used antihypertensive agent for the treatment of paediatric hypertension, but the commercially available tablets are not suitable to treat young patients, who need lower, flexible dosages and a liquid formulation. Objective To determine the pharmacokinetic properties of amlodipine and the acceptability of a standardised, extemporaneous oral solution. Method A newly developed liquid formulation of amlodipine was administered to hypertensive children between the age of 6 months and 11 years. Using a limited sampling strategy, population PK analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed effects modelling. Results Nine children, with a median age of 2.9 years (IQR 1.8-8.4), receiving stable amlodipine therapy in a median dose of 0.15 mg kg^-1 day^-1 (IQR 0.11-0.18), were switched to study medication. The population pharmacokinetic model was able to accurately predict the clearance of amlodipine in the study population. Based on the final model, clearance was reduced by 31.2% (RSE: 10%) in females. Patient reported outcomes on taste from a five-point hedonic scale were available for five patients, who scored the taste from positive to slightly negative. Conclusion The results from the PK study and the acceptability assessment show that the amlodipine oral solution presented in this study offers an appropriate treatment option for young children.

Research Gaps in Primary Pediatric Hypertension

Hypertension affects >40% of the US population and is a major contributor to cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality. Although less common among children and adolescents, hypertension affects 1% to 5% of all youth. The 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents provided updates and strategies regarding the diagnosis and management of hypertension in youth. Despite this important information, many gaps in knowledge remain, such as the etiology, prevalence, and trends of hypertension; the utility and practicality of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring; practical goals for lifestyle modification that are generalizable; the long-term end-organ impacts of hypertension in youth; and the long-term safety and efficacy of antihypertensive therapy in youth. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, in collaboration with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the US Food and Drug Administration, sponsored a workshop of experts to discuss the current state of childhood primary hypertension. We highlight the results of that workshop and aim to (1) provide an overview of current practices related to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of primary pediatric hypertension; (2) identify related research gaps; and (3) propose ways to address existing research gaps.

Pharmacological Treatment of Arterial Hypertension in Children and Adolescents: A Network Meta-Analysis

Pharmacological treatment is indicated in children and adolescents with hypertension unresponsive to lifestyle modifications, but there is not enough evidence to recommend 1 class of antihypertensive drugs over others. We performed a network meta-analysis to compare the results of available randomized clinical trials on pharmacological treatment of pediatric hypertension. From a total of 554 potentially relevant studies, 13 randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials enrolling ≥50 patients and a follow-up ≥4 weeks were included. The reduction of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) after treatment were the coprimary end points. A total of 2378 pediatric patients, with a median age of 12 years, were included in the analysis. After a median follow-up of 35 days, lisinopril and enalapril were found to be superior to placebo in reducing SBP and DBP, whereas only for DBP, losartan was found to be superior to placebo and lisinopril and enalapril were found to be superior to eplerenone. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers were associated with a greater SBP and DBP reduction compared with placebo, likewise the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist was inferior to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in DBP reduction. The analysis was adjusted for study-level mean age, percentage of women, mean baseline blood pressure, and mean weight, only the latter significantly affected DBP reduction. According to the present analysis, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers could represent the best choice as antihypertensive treatment for pediatric hypertension. However, because of the paucity of available data for the other classes of antihypertensive drugs, definitive conclusions are not allowed and further randomized controlled trials are warranted.

Clinical Practice Guideline for Screening and Management of High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents

These pediatric hypertension guidelines are an update to the 2004 "Fourth Report on the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents." Significant changes in these guidelines include (1) the replacement of the term "prehypertension" with the term "elevated blood pressure," (2) new normative pediatric blood pressure (BP) tables based on normal-weight children, (3) a simplified screening table for identifying BPs needing further evaluation, (4) a simplified BP classification in adolescents ≥13 years of age that aligns with the forthcoming American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology adult BP guidelines, (5) a more limited recommendation to perform screening BP measurements only at preventive care visits, (6) streamlined recommendations on the initial evaluation and management of abnormal BPs, (7) an expanded role for ambulatory BP monitoring in the diagnosis and management of pediatric hypertension, and (8) revised recommendations on when to perform echocardiography in the evaluation of newly diagnosed hypertensive pediatric patients (generally only before medication initiation), along with a revised definition of left ventricular hypertrophy. These guidelines include 30 Key Action Statements and 27 additional recommendations derived from a comprehensive review of almost 15 000 published articles between January 2004 and July 2016. Each Key Action Statement includes level of evidence, benefit-harm relationship, and strength of recommendation. This clinical practice guideline, endorsed by the American Heart Association, is intended to foster a patient- and family-centered approach to care, reduce unnecessary and costly medical interventions, improve patient diagnoses and outcomes, support implementation, and provide direction for future research.

Amlodipine: The double edged sword

AIM

Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker became one of the most popular antihypertensive medications used in the paediatric population. This is mainly due to its long half-life making it easy to use as a single daily dose. Amlodipine is associated with common side effects like flushing, headache and dizziness. The incidence of amlodipine-related oedema was noted to be lower in the paediatric population compared to adults. We emphasise the importance of monitoring the development of oedema in patients treated with amlodipine.

METHODS

Hereby, we report four paediatric cases with amlodipine-related generalised oedema.

CONCLUSION

Resolution of the oedema with stoppage of amlodipine confirms its culprit as a cause of the oedema. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series of amlodipine-related generalised oedema in the paediatric population.

An update on the assessment and management of metabolic syndrome, a growing medical emergency in paediatric populations

In the last decades the increasing rate of obesity in children and adolescents worldwide has led to the onset in paediatric age of metabolic syndrome, a disease commonly associated to adulthood. Central obesity, dyslipidaemia, hyperglycaemia, and hypertension are typical features of metabolic syndrome that seem to hesitate often in type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and many other clinical conditions. Thus preventing and curing metabolic syndrome in paediatric patients is becoming an urgent need for public health. While diagnostic criteria and therapy of metabolic syndrome in adults are very well defined, there is no consensus on the definition of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents as well as on healing approaches. The aim of this review is to describe the recent advances on the pathogenesis and clinical outcomes of paediatric metabolic syndrome. We then detail the therapeutic strategies (i.e. dietary regimens, physical exercise, nutraceuticals, and medications) employed to manage the disease. Finally, we analyse the safety profile of the drugs used in children and adolescents by performing a retrospective review of paediatric adverse reactions reported in the FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System database.

Amlodipine-Induced Bilateral Upper Extremity Edema

Objective:

To report a case of bilateral upper extremity edema associated with amlodipine use in a child.

Case Summary:

A previously well and normotensive 6-year-old girl presented with a generalized vasculitis of unknown origin and severe hypertension. Large vessels predominantly affecting the neck, chest, and abdomen were found to be involved, resulting in abnormal arterial circulation and significant blood pressure differences between the upper and lower extremities. Multiple antihypertensive agents were initially required to control blood pressure. She was stabilized and discharged on amlodipine 10 mg each evening, atenolol 50 mg/day, and warfarin. Three days later she was noted to have facial and bilateral upper extremity pitting edema. Laboratory and radiologic assessments for possible etiologies were negative. Discontinuation of amlodipine resulted in resolution of edema.

Discussion:

As of June 2007, there had been no cases of bilateral upper extremity edema associated with amlodipine use reported in the English literature. Adverse effects of amlodipine, a widely used antihypertensive, have been well reported. These include flushing, headache, and peripheral edema. Lower limb edema is the most common, while periocular and perioral edema have occurred less frequently. Anasarca edema has been described only once in the English literature. According to the Naranjo probability scale, amlodipine was a probable cause of bilateral upper extremity edema in this child.

Conclusions:

Bilateral upper extremity edema has been associated with amlodipine use in a child with an abnormal arterial circulation. The edema resolved upon discontinuation of the drug.

Pharmacologic Treatment of Pediatric Hypertension

Prevalence of hypertension is increasing in children and adolescents. Uncontrolled hypertension in children not only causes end organ damage but also increases the risk of adult hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Clinical trials have proven efficacy of antihypertensive medications in children. These medications are well tolerated by children with acceptable safety profile. The choice of agent is usually driven by underlying etiology of hypertension, profile of its side effects, and clinician's preference. This article will review currently available pediatric data on mechanism of action, common adverse effects, pediatric indication, recent clinical trial, and newer drugs in the common classes of antihypertensive medications.

Review: Lisinopril in paediatric medicine: a retrospective chart review of long-term treatment in children

Objective. To investigate the antihypertensive efficacy, dosing, tolerability and effects on growth of lisinopril (off label-use) in paediatric patients during long-term treatment.

Design. We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 123 patients treated with lisinopril in a paediatric nephrology clinic over a 9.3-year period. Patients were categorised by age group and predominant clinical diagnosis: hypertension (n=59), renal parenchymal disease (n=27), diabetes mellitus (n=33) and miscellaneous (n=4).

Results. The vast majority were Caucasian (93%) and boys (66%). Mean duration of treatment was 2.0 years. Age at start of treatment ranged from two months to 17.7 years. Mean lisinopril starting and final doses were 0.105 mg/kg/day for hypertensive patients and 0.108 mg/kg/day for patients with renal disease, respectively. The most common adverse event was hypotension (8.6% of the patients). Haematology and serum biochemistry profiles were unaffected by lisinopril. Growth was not different from data recorded by Belgian population studies. In 29 of the 47 hypertensive patients who received lisinopril monotherapy, comparing blood pressure (BP) at baseline and after six months' treatment, mean reductions in systolic/diastolic BP were 19/18 mmHg.

Conclusions. Lisinopril was well tolerated in paediatric patients. Doses of 0.1 mg/kg/day produced clinically significant BP reduction in hypertensive patients.

[Clinical and etiological profile malignant hypertension in children in pediatric intensive care]

INTRODUCTION

Malignant hypertension (HTA), pediatrics, is unique by its clinical presentation, defined as severe hypertension accompanied by ischemic failure of one or more organs.

METHODS-PATIENTS

Retroprospective study of cases of children admitted to pediatric intensive care. We chose a decline of 10 years from September 1994 to December 2004 for the first time, and from January 2005 to December 2015 for the second period; and we identified the cases presenting malignant hypertension (mHTA).

RESULTS

Sixty-six patients were included, a prevalence of 0.6%. The age of patients ranged from 12months to 16years. The symptoms are related to the consequences of hypertension or condition in question. The most found signs are headache in more than 7%. Cerebrovascular event in 6%. A hypertensive convulsive encephalopathy 33.3% of patients. Renal disease is common, of varying severity. A fundus retinopathy was found in 47% stage 3, stage 4 in 51%. mHTA defined for the mean SBP values of 175mmHg and DBP average 112,5mmHg is often secondary to renal causes. The treatment is symptomatic with antihypertensive associated with the etiological treatment. Evolution is good out of 7 deaths.

CONCLUSION

mHTA is a rare condition in the pediatric population. The clinical signs of functional rich under their impact on vital organs. The support must be early in intensive care.

Comparative effectiveness of antihypertensive treatment for older children with primary hypertension: study protocol for a series of n-of-1 randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Children are increasingly being diagnosed with primary hypertension. The absence of comparative effectiveness research of antihypertensive medications in children has contributed to considerable differences in prescribing practices among physicians treating children with primary hypertension. Even if parallel-group trials had established a best overall choice for most of these children, the best medication for an individual may differ from the best overall medication.

METHODS/DESIGN

This project consists of a series of systematically administered n-of-1 trials among older children to verify the need for ongoing antihypertensive treatment and, if so, to identify the preferred single drug therapy from among the three major classes of drugs commonly used for primary hypertension (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics). We will determine whether one of these is the preferred therapy for the great majority of patients. The "preferred" therapy is the drug which produces normal ambulatory blood pressure, with the greatest reduction in blood pressure without unacceptable side effects. We will recruit 50 patients from the Houston Pediatric and Adolescent Hypertension Program clinic. For each patient, the three drugs will be prescribed in random order and each drug will be taken for 2 weeks. The effectiveness of each therapy will be measured with 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and tolerability will be assessed using a side effect questionnaire. Participants will rotate through treatment periods, repeating drugs and adjusting doses until the preferred therapy is identified. In assessing whether one of the medications is most effective for the majority of subjects, the primary outcome will be the percentage of participants for whom each drug is selected as the preferred therapy. We hypothesize that no drug will be selected for the great majority of the subjects, a finding that would support consideration of clinical use of n-of-1 trials. Secondary analyses will explore whether patient characteristics predict which medication will be selected as a preferred drug.

DISCUSSION

This study will help optimize care of participating patients and provide evidence regarding the usefulness of n-of-1 trials in identifying appropriate treatment for children with hypertension and potentially other disorders.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02412761 (registered 4/8/2015).

Pharmacological interventions for hypertension in children

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke, coronary artery disease and kidney damage in adults. There is a paucity of data on the long-term sequelae of persistent hypertension in children, but it is known that children with hypertension have evidence of end organ damage and are at risk of hypertension into adulthood. The prevalence of hypertension in children is rising, most likely due to a concurrent rise in obesity rates. In children with hypertension, non-pharmacological measures are often recommended as first-line therapy, but a significant proportion of children will eventually require pharmacological treatment to reduce blood pressure, especially those with evidence of end organ damage at presentation or during follow-up. A systematic review of the effects of antihypertensive agents in children has not previously been conducted.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the dose-related effects of different classes of antihypertensive medications, as monotherapy compared to placebo; as combination therapy compared to placebo or a single medication; or in comparisons of various doses within the same class, on systolic or diastolic blood pressure (or both) in children with hypertension.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Hypertension Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2013, Issue 9), Ovid MEDLINE (1946 to October 2013), Ovid EMBASE (1974 to October 2013) and bibliographic citations.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The selection criteria were deliberately broad due to there being few clinical trials in children. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least two weeks duration comparing antihypertensive agents either as monotherapy or combination therapy with either placebo or another medication, or comparing different doses of the same medication, in children with hypertension. Hypertension was defined as an average (over a minimum of three readings) systolic or diastolic blood pressure (or both) on the 95(th) percentile or above for age, height and gender.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected relevant studies, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We summarised data, where possible, using a random-effects model. Formal assessment of heterogeneity was not possible because of insufficient data.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 21 trials evaluated antihypertensive medications of various drug classes in 3454 hypertensive children with periods of follow-up ranging from three to 24 weeks. There were five RCTs comparing an antihypertensive drug directly with placebo, 12 dose-finding trials, two trials comparing calcium channel blockers with angiotensin receptor blockers, one trial comparing a centrally acting alpha blocker with a diuretic and one trial comparing an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor with an angiotensin receptor blocker. No randomised trial was identified that evaluated the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications on target end organ damage. The trials were of variable quality and most were funded by pharmaceutical companies. Among the angiotensin receptor blockers, candesartan (one trial, n = 240), when compared to placebo, reduced systolic blood pressure by 6.50 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI) -9.44 to -3.56) and diastolic blood pressure by 5.50 mmHg (95% CI -9.62 to -1.38) (low-quality evidence). High dose telmisartan (one trial, n = 76), when compared to placebo, reduced systolic blood pressure by -8.50 (95% CI -13.79 to -3.21) but not diastolic blood pressure (-4.80, 95% CI -9.50 to 0.10) (low-quality evidence). Beta blocker (metoprolol, one trial, n = 140), when compared with placebo , significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by 4.20 mmHg (95% CI -8.12 to -0.28) but not diastolic blood pressure (-3.20 mmHg 95% CI -7.12 to 0.72) (low-quality evidence). Beta blocker/diuretic combination (Bisoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide, one trial, n = 94)when compared with placebo , did not result in a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (-4.0 mmHg, 95% CI -8.99 to -0.19) but did have an effect on diastolic blood pressure (-4.50 mmHg, 95% CI -8.26 to -0.74) (low-quality evidence). Calcium channel blocker (extended-release felodipine,one trial, n = 133) was not effective in reducing systolic blood pressure (-0.62 mmHg, 95% CI -2.97 to 1.73) or diastolic blood pressure (-1.86 mmHg, 95% CI -5.23 to 1.51) when compared with placebo. Further, there was no consistent dose response observed among any of the drug classes. The adverse events associated with the antihypertensive agents were mostly minor and included headaches, dizziness and upper respiratory infections.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there are sparse data informing the use of antihypertensive agents in children, with outcomes reported limited to blood pressure and not end organ damage. The most data are available for candesartan, for which there is low-quality evidence of a modest lowering effect on blood pressure. We did not find evidence of a consistent dose response relationship for escalating doses of angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. All agents appear safe, at least in the short term.

Anti-hypertensive drugs in children and adolescents

Worldwide the prevalence of essential hypertension in children and adolescents continues to increase. Traditionally providers have used “off-label” drugs to treat pediatric hypertension, meaning that rigorous clinical trials of these drugs have not been specifically performed in pediatric patient populations. Consequently providers have extrapolated dosing, safety and efficacy from trials in adults. This practice is sub-optimal as children demonstrate unique differences in drug metabolism and response. Use of unstudied or understudied drugs increases risk of adverse events and/or can lead to sub-optimal efficacy. Recognizing these concerns, regulatory agencies have created financial incentives for industry to conduct pediatric clinical trials. These incentives, coupled with the emerging pediatric hypertension epidemic, have spurred over 30 clinical trials of anti-hypertensive drugs over the past 15 years and have resulted in labeling of 10 new drugs by the United States Food and Drug Administration for treatment of hypertension in children and adolescents. Unfortunately the financial incentive structures focus on newer drugs and drug classes. Consequently there is now a relative dearth of trial data for older but sometimes commonly prescribed pediatric antihypertensive drugs. This article reviews recent pediatric antihypertensive drug trials with a focus on trial design and endpoints, drug dosing, safety, efficacy and specific drug indications. We also review the available data and experience for some of the more commonly prescribed, but less well studied “older” pediatric antihypertensive drugs.

Pharmacological interventions for hypertension in children

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke, coronary artery disease and kidney damage in adults. There is a paucity of data on the long-term sequelae of persistent hypertension in children, but it is known that children with hypertension have evidence of end organ damage and are at risk of hypertension into adulthood. The prevalence of hypertension in children is rising, most likely due to a concurrent rise in obesity rates. In children with hypertension, non-pharmacological measures are often recommended as first-line therapy, but a significant proportion of children will eventually require pharmacological treatment to reduce blood pressure, especially those with evidence of end organ damage at presentation or during follow-up. A systematic review of the effects of antihypertensive agents in children has not previously been conducted.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the dose-related effects of different classes of antihypertensive medications, as monotherapy compared to placebo; as combination therapy compared to placebo or a single medication; or in comparisons of various doses within the same class, on systolic or diastolic blood pressure (or both) in children with hypertension.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Hypertension Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2013, Issue 9), Ovid MEDLINE (1946 to October 2013), Ovid EMBASE (1974 to October 2013) and bibliographic citations.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The selection criteria were deliberately broad due to there being few clinical trials in children. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least two weeks duration comparing antihypertensive agents either as monotherapy or combination therapy with either placebo or another medication, or comparing different doses of the same medication, in children with hypertension. Hypertension was defined as an average (over a minimum of three readings) systolic or diastolic blood pressure (or both) on the 95(th) percentile or above for age, height and gender. 

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently selected relevant studies, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We summarised data, where possible, using a random-effects model. Formal assessment of heterogeneity was not possible because of insufficient data.

MAIN RESULTS

A total of 21 trials evaluated antihypertensive medications of various drug classes in 3454 hypertensive children with periods of follow-up ranging from three to 24 weeks. There were five RCTs comparing an antihypertensive drug directly with placebo, 12 dose-finding trials, two trials comparing calcium channel blockers with angiotensin receptor blockers, one trial comparing a centrally acting alpha blocker with a diuretic and one trial comparing an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor with an angiotensin receptor blocker. No randomised trial was identified that evaluated the effectiveness of antihypertensive medications on target end organ damage. The trials were of variable quality and most were funded by pharmaceutical companies.Among the angiotensin receptor blockers, candesartan (one trial, n = 240), when compared to placebo, reduced systolic blood pressure by 6.50 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI) -9.44 to -3.56) and diastolic blood pressure by 5.50 mmHg (95% CI -9.62 to -1.38) (low-quality evidence). High dose telmisartan (one trial, n = 76), when compared to placebo, reduced systolic blood pressure by -8.50 (95% CI -13.79 to -3.21) but not diastolic blood pressure (-4.80, 95% CI -9.50 to 0.10) (low-quality evidence). Beta blocker (metoprolol, one trial, n = 140), when compared with placebo , significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by 4.20 mmHg (95% CI -8.12 to -0.28) but not diastolic blood pressure (-3.20 mmHg 95% CI -7.12 to 0.72) (low-quality evidence). Beta blocker/diuretic combination (Bisoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide, one trial, n = 94)when compared with placebo , did not result in a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (-4.0 mmHg, 95% CI -8.99 to -0.19) but did have an effect on diastolic blood pressure (-4.50 mmHg, 95% CI -8.26 to -0.74) (low-quality evidence). Calcium channel blocker (extended-release felodipine,one trial, n = 133) was not effective in reducing systolic blood pressure (-0.62 mmHg, 95% CI -2.97 to 1.73) or diastolic blood pressure (-1.86 mmHg, 95% CI -5.23 to 1.51) when compared with placebo. Further, there was no consistent dose response observed among any of the drug classes. The adverse events associated with the antihypertensive agents were mostly minor and included headaches, dizziness and upper respiratory infections.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there are sparse data informing the use of antihypertensive agents in children, with outcomes reported limited to blood pressure and not end organ damage. The most data are available for candesartan, for which there is low-quality evidence of a modest lowering effect on blood pressure. We did not find evidence of a consistent dose response relationship for escalating doses of angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. All agents appear safe, at least in the short term.

What is the optimal first-line agent in children requiring antihypertensive medication?

There has been an evolution in the understanding of the treatment of hypertension in children and adolescents over the past decade. This has been fueled in part by the increased attention paid to the clinical problem, given the increasing numbers of children and adolescents being diagnosed with this condition. There has also been a growing number of clinical trials performed and completed that demonstrate the blood pressure (BP)-lowering effects of antihypertensives and the side effect profiles of these medications, and that has led to FDA-labeling of many antihypertensive medications for use in children and adolescents. However, none of these trials has provided definitive data on the optimal first line agent for this patient population. Clinical experience and other approaches discussed in this review are still necessary to guide treatment of hypertension in the young. The quest for the optimal antihypertensive agent is just beginning, and it is going to take some extraordinary effort to reach that goal.

Population Pharmacokinetics of Amlodipine in Hypertensive Children and Adolescents

A population pharmacokinetic study was conducted in 74 hypertensive children (mean age 10.4 +/- 4.4 years [mean +/- SD]) receiving amlodipine (mean dose 0.17 +/- 0.13 mg/kg/d) chronically. Multiple blood samples were obtained from each subject to characterize amlodipine pharmacokinetics. Plasma amlodipine concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography/mass spectrophotometry with multiple-reaction monitoring detection. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using NONMEM. Amlodipine concentrations were similar in subjects dosed either once or twice daily. Amlodipine pharmacokinetics were well described by a 1-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination. For a subject at the population median weight (45 kg), predicted apparent clearances (CL/F) were 23.7 L/h for males and 17.6 L/h for females, and the apparent volume of distribution (V/F) was 25.1 L/kg. Dosing frequency did not appear to affect amlodipine concentrations in children. Weight-adjusted CL/F and V/F of amlodipine in younger children were significantly greater than in older children, suggesting a need for higher doses when treating young children with amlodipine.

Screening for hypertension in children and adolescents to prevent cardiovascular disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of hypertension is increasing in children, and may persist into adulthood. This systematic review was conducted for the US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation on the effectiveness of screening asymptomatic children and adolescents for hypertension in order to prevent cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

Eligible studies were identified from Medline and the Cochrane Library (through July 2012). We included trials and controlled observational studies in asymptomatic children and adolescents on the effectiveness and harms of screening and treatment, as well as accuracy of blood pressure measurement. One author extracted study characteristics and results, which were checked for accuracy by a second author.

RESULTS

No studies evaluated the effects of screening for hypertension on health outcomes. Two studies of screening tests for elevated blood pressure reported moderate sensitivities (0.65, 0.72) and specificities (0.75, 0.92). Sensitivities and specificities of child hypertension for the later presence of adult hypertension (7 studies) were wide ranging (0-0.63 and 0.77-1.0, respectively), and associations between child hypertension and carotid intima media thickening and proteinuria in young adults (3 studies) were inconsistent. Seven studies reported that drug interventions effectively lowered blood pressure in adolescents over short follow-up periods. No serious treatment-related adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no direct evidence that screening for hypertension in children and adolescents reduces adverse cardiovascular outcomes in adults. Additional studies are needed to improve diagnosis and risk stratification of children with elevated blood pressure and to quantify risks and benefits of interventions.

The growing epidemic of hypertension among children and adolescents: a challenging road ahead

Currently, it is clear that primary hypertension begins in childhood and that it contributes to the early development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Hypertension also increases the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and that risk rises as blood pressure levels escalate. As among adult patients, overweight and obesity rates are on the rise among children and adolescents with primary hypertension and can develop target organ damage including left ventricular hypertrophy. An elevated level of C-reactive protein (CRP) and microalbuminuria are early manifestations of cardiovascular disease and CKD in hypertensive patients. Lifestyle interventions are recommended for all children with hypertension. Pharmacologic therapy should be added for symptomatic children, those with stage 2 hypertension, and children with prehypertension and stage 1 hypertension who exhibit an insufficient response to lifestyle modifications. Although the recommendations for choice of drugs generally are similar for children and adults, dosages for children should be lower, based on weight, and adjusted very carefully. Medications that are effective and safe for children and adolescents include thiazide diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, and calcium channel-blockers. Hypertension is not being detected early enough for initiation of a treatment regimen to reduce death and disability. Initiatives should be undertaken to make health care providers and the general population more aware of the seriousness of hypertension in children and adolescents. This review focuses on the principles underlying the importance of a team approach for hypertension control, especially one that incorporates increased data sharing using enhanced health information technology for early detection and intervention.

Pediatric cardiovascular drug trials, lessons learned

Few drugs have been labeled for pediatric cardiovascular indications, and many children with cardiac disease are prescribed drugs off-label. Recent initiatives have narrowed this gap, and as a result, there are an increasing number of cardiology trials in the pediatric population. Many studies, however, have either failed to show a dose response in children or have not shown efficacy in children when they have established efficacy in adults. Clinical trials are challenging in children; many factors such as lack of development of a liquid formulation, failure to fully incorporate pharmacokinetic information into trial design, poor dose selection, the lack of clinical equipoise, and the use of difficult surrogate and composite primary endpoints have led to the difficulties and failures observed in several pediatric cardiovascular trials. These lessons learned may help to inform future pediatric clinical trial development.

Efficacy and safety of valsartan compared to enalapril in hypertensive children: a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study

OBJECTIVE

This study compares efficacy and safety of valsartan with enalapril in hypertensive children aged 6-17 years.

METHOD

This was a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, active-controlled study. After a single-blind placebo run-in period (4-28 days), patients with mean sitting systolic blood pressure (BP) (MSSBP) at least 95th percentile for age, gender, and height were randomized to receive half the assigned dose for first week, and force-titrated to full dose for 11 weeks (≥18 to <35 kg - valsartan: 80 mg, enalapril: 10 mg; ≥35 to <80 kg - valsartan: 160 mg, enalapril: 20 mg; ≥80 to ≤160 kg - valsartan: 320 mg, enalapril: 40 mg). The primary efficacy variable was changed from baseline in MSSBP to show noninferiority of valsartan to enalapril. Other efficacy variables were changed from baseline in MSDBP, SBP control rate, and 24-h ambulatory BP parameters.

RESULTS

Of 300 randomized patients, 281 (94%) completed the study. At week 12, MSSBP reductions were similar for valsartan and enalapril (primary endpoint of noninferiority, P < 0.0001). Least square mean BP reductions from baseline of -15.4/-9.4 mmHg were observed for valsartan compared with -14.1/-8.5 mmHg for enalapril. A similar proportion of patients achieved SBP control (valsartan: 67%; enalapril: 70%). In the subset of patients who underwent ambulatory BP assessments, valsartan provided greater reductions than enalapril in mean 24-h SBP (valsartan: -9.8 mmHg, enalapril: -7.2 mmHg: P = 0.03). The overall incidence of AEs was similar (valsartan 60%, enalapril 58%) with headache, cough, and nasopharyngitis reported most frequently.

CONCLUSIONS

Valsartan and enalapril provided comparable BP reductions and effective BP control and were well tolerated in hypertensive children aged 6-17 years.

Management of hypertension in the young: role of antihypertensive medications

Traditionally, antihypertensive medications were used in few children or adolescents, usually just those with underlying renal or other organ system disease. However, with recent data suggesting that the incidence of primary hypertension may be increasing in the young, it is possible that more children and adolescents will be prescribed antihypertensive agents. This article will review currently available pediatric data on the use of calcium channel blockers, agents affecting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and other classes of antihypertensive medications in children, highlighting appropriate indications and safety considerations. Guidelines for use of antihypertensive medications, including choice of initial agent and how to prescribe appropriately, will be presented.

Amlodipine-Induced Gingival Hyperplasia in a Child: Case Report and a Review of the Literature

Objective:

To increase awareness of amlodipine-induced gingival hyperplasia in children, as well as review whether a dose-related relationship exists.

Case Summary:

A 9-year-old girl with a past medical history of membranous nephropathy and hypertension presented with failure to thrive and inability to gain weight. She had a history of allergy to enalapril. On admission, she was found to have gingival hyperplasia. A review of her medication profile found amlodipine and azathioprine to be possible agents for this adverse reaction. The child's mother noticed this adverse effect after an increase in amlodipine dosage. We recommended substituting the angiotensin receptor blocker losartan for amlodipine; however, the nephrologist feared a cross-reactivity with enalapril and decided to continue amlodipine therapy. A follow-up call after hospital discharge revealed that the patient could no longer eat by mouth and that her gums bled upon brushing.

Discussion:

We reviewed the possible role of azathioprine in causing our patient's gingival hyperplasia. Due to the timeliness of this occurrence and the possibility of a dose-related response, we selectively reviewed the literature associated with amlodipine in children. A PubMed search and subsequent review of the literature revealed 1 study in rats that showed a relationship between amlodipine dose/plasma concentration and gingival hyperplasia. In humans, this relationship was reported with other calcium channel blockers, but not with amlodipine and not in a child. The Naranjo probability scale revealed a possible adverse reaction of gingival hyperplasia associated with amlodipine.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a possible dose-related occurrence of gingival hyperplasia in a child receiving amlodipine.

Management of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents

Concomitantly with the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) is rising among children and adolescents, leading to fears for future epidemics of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease in the young. This makes the accurate identification and the appropriate treatment of children and adolescents with MS an important priority for health care systems. This review will focus on the management of each component of MS, including the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is currently considered as the hepatic component of the syndrome. The most relevant target of treatment of MS in children and adolescents is the abdominal obesity. To this end, we will discuss the efficacy of dietary approaches, possibly coupled with regular physical activity, on eliciting visceral fat reduction. We will also highlight several aspects of the treatment of the high triglyceride/low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol phenotype, including the use of non-pharmacological measures, and indications for instituting drug therapies. Part of this review will address treatment of glucose abnormalities, including the benefits of lifestyle modification alone, and the potential adjunctive role of hypoglycemic drugs. The treatment of hypertension in children with MS also requires a multifaceted approach and the available data of this topic will be examined. The remainder of this review will address treatment to reverse NAFLD and prevent progression to end-stage disease.

Effectiveness and safety of valsartan in children aged 6 to 16 years with hypertension

The effectiveness and safety of valsartan have not been assessed in hypertensive children. Therefore, hypertensive patients aged 6 to 16 years (n=261) were randomized to receive weight-stratified low- (10/20 mg), medium- (40/80 mg), or high-dose (80/160 mg) valsartan for 2 weeks. After 2 weeks, patients were randomized to a 2-week placebo-controlled withdrawal phase. Dose-dependent reductions in sitting systolic blood pressure (SSBP) and sitting diastolic blood pressure (SDBP) were observed after 2 weeks (low dose, -7.9/-4.6 mm Hg; medium dose, -9.6/-5.8 mm Hg; high dose, -11.5/-7.4 mm Hg [P<.0001 for all groups]). During the withdrawal phase, SSBP and SDBP were both lower in the pooled valsartan group than in the pooled placebo group (SSBP, -2.7 mm Hg [P=.0368]; SDBP, -3.0 mm Hg [P=.0047]). Similar efficacy was observed in all subgroups. Valsartan was well tolerated and headache was the most commonly observed adverse event during both the double-blind and 52-week open-label phases.

Valsartan use in pediatric hypertension

Hypertension affects up to 5% of school-aged children and is defined by an average systolic or diastolic blood pressure greater than the 95th percentile for age, sex and height. In prepubertal children a secondary cause for hypertension including renal disease, coarctation of the aorta or endocrine disease should be excluded by appropriate evaluation. The incidence and prevalence of essential hypertension in adolescents has increased together with the increase in obesity and now accounts for at least 50% of hypertension in this age group. Many children with primary hypertension and most children with secondary causes for hypertension require drug therapy. There are numerous drug classes that are presently used to treat hypertensive pediatric patients, which include β-blockers, peripheral α-blockers, direct vasodilators, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, diuretics and ARBs. This article will review the pharmacology of the ARB valsartan with respect to its efficacy, tolerability and safe use in hypertensive pediatric patients.

Challenges and recommendations for placebo controls in randomized trials in physical and rehabilitation medicine: a report of the international placebo symposium working group

Compared with other specialties, the field of physical and rehabilitation medicine has not received the deserved recognition from clinicians and researchers in the scientific community. One of the reasons is the lack of sound evidence to support the traditional physical and rehabilitation medicine treatments. The best way to change this disadvantage is through a well conducted clinical research, such as standard placebo- or sham-controlled randomized clinical trials. Therefore, having placebo groups in clinical trials is essential to improve the level of evidence-based practice in physical and rehabilitation medicine that ultimately translates to better clinical care. To address the challenges for the use of placebo in physical and rehabilitation medicine and randomized clinical trials and to create useful recommendations, we convened a working group during the inaugural International Symposium in Placebo (February 2009, in Sao Paulo, Brazil) in which the following topics were discussed: (1) current status of randomized clinical trials in physical and rehabilitation medicine, (2) challenges for the use of placebo in physical and rehabilitation medicine, (3) bioethics, (4) use of placebo in acupuncture trials and for the treatment of low-back pain, (5) mechanisms of placebo, and (6) insights from other specialties. The current article represents the consensus report from the working group.