Amlodipine-Based Therapy and Its Effect on Time in Target Range and Long-Term Blood Pressure Variability Across Age Groups in Chinese Patients With Primary Hypertension: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

This study aimed to compare systolic blood pressure (SBP) time in target range (TTR), long-term blood pressure (BP) variability (BPV), and BP control across age groups (18–45, 46–64, 65–79, ≥80 years) in patients with primary hypertension treated with amlodipine-based antihypertensive therapy for ≥12 months. Data were obtained from adult patients enrolled in the China Hypertension Center who received amlodipine-based antihypertensive therapy. Demographics, BP measurements, and laboratory results were recorded. Baseline characteristics, SBP TTR, long-term BPV, and BP control were compared among age groups. A total of 36 153 patients were included: 2681 in the 18–45 group, 14 300 in the 46–64 group, 15 595 in the 65–79 group, and 3577 in the ≥ 80 group. Younger and middle-aged patients demonstrated better indicator improvements. SBP TTR declined with age (82.52% ± 19.68%, 81.98% ± 20.69%, 79.10% ± 22.96%, and 78.33% ± 23.50%, respectively; p < 0.001). BP control also declined with age (84.04%, 83.20%, 80.44%, and 79.59%, respectively; p < 0.001). BPV increased with age, though not significantly (p = 0.051). During follow-up, SBP TTR and BP control improved, while BPV declined, with most changes reaching statistical significance. Across all age groups, SBP TTR remained above 78% throughout follow-up. Long-term continuous use of amlodipine is beneficial for achieving improved BP control, enhanced TTR, and reduced BPV.