Comparative evaluation of antihypertensive effects of Ramipril vs. Losartan in patients with uncomplicated stage-1 hypertension

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Hypertension is responsible for high morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular diseases. As Ramipril and Losartan are important ones due to extensive use, fewer side effects, low cost & availability in market, study was aimed to evaluate antihypertensive effects, tolerability & compliances of Ramipril & Losartan in patients with uncomplicated stage-1 hypertension in suburban & rural population. Methods: A randomized, single blind, parallel & cross over study was conducted in Medicine OPD of a tertiary care hospital for period of 12 months. Patients of both sexes, aged 25-60 years, with uncomplicated stage-1 hypertension were included. Patients with hypertension were checked for systolic blood pressure (SBP) / diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in sitting posture. Patients were randomly selected into 2 groups: group-A received tab. Ramipril (5 mg/day) & group-B received tab. Losartan (50 mg/day) at start of treatment, followed by wash-out period & then Losartan was given to group-A & ramipril to group-B. Paired t test applied between groups. Results: Our study revealed that both drugs reduced SBP & DBP gradually from baseline BP but Ramipril reduced more effectively & significantly (p<0.001) SBP & DBP than Losartan. Conclusion: Ramipril had better efficacy than Losartan in reduction of BP in stage-1 hypertensive patients with no complications, though it is slightly costlier.

Key words: Stage-1 hypertension, Ramipril, Losartan, SBP, DBP