Antihypertensive Prescribing Practices: Impact of the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial

Abstract

This national study examines the impact of the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) on the prescribing of thiazide-type diuretics and other antihypertensive medications for patients with newly diagnosed hypertension. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from a national network of electronic health records for 2 groups with newly diagnosed hypertension and started on antihypertensive medications: one a year before and the other a year after the publication of ALLHAT. The percentage of new hypertensives started on thiazides increased from 29% pre-ALLHAT to 39% post-ALLHAT. An increase was also seen for angiotensin receptor blockers, while prescribing for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and β-blockers declined. There was no significant change in prescriptions for α-blockers. Prescriptions for thiazides for patients with newly diagnosed hypertension increased after the publication of ALLHAT. Data from large national trials can have a considerable impact on prescribing practices.