Antihypertensive drugs and the heart

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and diastolic dysfunction (CHF-D) are early signs of cardiac end-organ damage (hypertensive heart disease) in patients with arterial hypertension. The presence of LVH or CHF-D confers increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with hypertension. Regression of left ventricular mass with antihypertensive therapy is associated with reduction in cardiovascular events. Antihypertensive therapy should be geared to both lower blood pressure and specifically reverse the pathophysiologic processes that may be independent of actual blood pressure. This review summarizes current and emerging approaches to the treatment of individuals with hypertensive heart disease.