Management Of Hypertension In Renal Disease: Results From The Imperial Study

THE IMPERIAL (Indian Medical Practitioners Expressions Regarding Drug Intervention In All Aspects of MetaboLic Syndrome) study, which assessed Indian physicians’ prescribing habits related to metabolic syndrome, also assessed their preferred management strategies in hypertension associated with renal disease, This paper reviews the results related to renal disease, obtained from the IMPERIAL study. There is a clear consensus for the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, followed by angiotensin receptor blockers, as first line antihypertensive therapy in patients with nephropathy. In ESRD, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics are recommended as first – line therapy by 2/3 and 1⁄2 of physician respectively. It is hoped that these results stimulate discussion, research, and final consensus on the management of hypertension in renal disorders, especially ESRD, while encouraging doctors to follow existing rational guidelines .