New approaches in the treatment of hypertension in metabolic diseases

Concomitant arterial hypertension and metabolic disorders is a frequent finding raising the risk of micro- and macrovascular complications. While prevalence of stroke and myocardial infarction is going down in hypertensives, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) becomes a bigger problem especially in diabetic hypertensives. The metabolic abnormalities are linked to the hypertension by the sympathoadrenal system mediated by insulin resistance (IR); subjects with hyperinsulinemia and increased sympathetic activity tend to have higher blood pressure, typical dyslipidemia, reduced fibrinolytic activity and other risk factors (RF) called metabolic syndrome of IR. Albuminuria (AUR) is considered as an important RF for the development of nephropathy, ESRD, cardiovascular diseases. AUR is a marker of cardiovascular and total mortality in diabetic and/or non-diabetic hypertensives. AUR reflects the endothelial dysfunction not only in glomerulus but also in the other arteries. Tissue Renin-Angiotensin System plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of hypertension and metabolic disorders; it affects the arterial wall, kidneys and heart longitudinally. Life style is very essential in the treatment of hypertension and metabolic disorders: rational diet with reduced amount of salt and animal proteins, non-smoking and sufficient physical activity. Antihypertensive drugs without any metabolic side effects and with the renal protection are necessary for the patients with hypertension and metabolic disturbances. ACE-inhibitors and/or some of the Ca-antagonists seems to be valuable especially as combined therapy.