In a nutshell
This study investigated if a single-pill combination (SPC) improves clinical outcomes in patients with high blood pressure (BP) and high cholesterol levels.
They found that SPC improved medication adherence and outcomes of these patients.
Some background
Hypertension or high blood pressure (BP) is a common condition. Hypertension can be treated in a number of ways. Anti-hypertensive drugs (AHTs) are one way to lower BP. There are many different types of AHTs. Some patients may need to take several drugs to manage BP levels. Many patients with hypertension also have dyslipidemia (DL; high levels of fats in the blood). This can increase the risk of heart events such as stroke or heart attack. Medication can be used to lower fat levels in the blood.
It is important that patients take their drugs regularly. This is called medication adherence (MA). MA can be more difficult when patients have multiple drugs to take. Many patients with hypertension and DL have poor MA.
A single pill combination (SPC) is a tablet containing one or more drugs. Several SPCs have been developed for patients with both hypertension and DL. Taking one pill may improve MA. Better MA should also lead to better clinical outcomes. It is unclear if SPC improves clinical outcomes in patients with hypertension and/or DL.
Methods & findings
This study included 11 reports on SPCs. Patients in these studies were on SPCs or free combination treatment (FCT). FCT involved taking multiple tablets. MA and clinical outcomes were measured for both groups. The main clinical outcomes were BP reduction and emergency hospital visits.
MA was 78% higher in the SPC group at 6 months. At 12 months or longer, MA was 85% higher in the SPC group. 2.13 times more patients in the SPC group had their medication on them when was time to take their medication compared to the FCT group. 22% more patients in the SPC group reached their BP target compared to the FCT group. Hospitalization rates were significantly lower in the SPC group.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that SPC improved MA and clinical outcomes in patients with hypertension and/or DL.
The fine print
There were significant differences between the studies. This makes it more difficult to compare the results. This analysis did not look at safety data. Each type of SPC could be associated with safety issues. A controlled study is needed to confirm the findings.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding hypertension management please consult with your doctor.
Published By :
High blood pressure & cardiovascular prevention: the official journal of the Italian Society of Hypertension
Date :
Mar 26, 2020
