Regression of left ventricular hypertrophy with isradipine in previously untreated hypertensive patients.

The regression of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is considered a desirable goal of antihypertensive treatment. Isradipine was used as first-line antihypertensive treatment in 15 patients who had mild-to-moderate hypertension and LVH, and who were studied before and after 6 months of treatment. Left ventricular mass and function were assessed by Doppler echocardiography. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were reduced from 161 +/- 14 mm Hg and 103 +/- 3 mm Hg to 136 +/- 8 mm Hg and 87 +/- 6 mm Hg, respectively (P < .001). The interventricular septal thickness was reduced by 11.9% (P < .001), posterior wall thickness by 11.1% (P < .001), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter by 2%, and left ventricular mass index by 17% (P < .02). In conclusion, 6 months of antihypertensive treatment of mild-to-moderate hypertension with isradipine achieves a significant regression (17%) of LVH.