Publications by authors named "W C Cushman"
Importance: Hypertension is a risk factor for the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is unclear whether different thiazide diuretics have a differential impact on kidney outcomes.
Objective: To compare kidney outcomes in patients with hypertension taking chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide.
Article Synopsis
- The Diuretic Comparison Project (DCP) was a pragmatic trial in the VA healthcare system that compared two diuretics, chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide, to see which better prevents major cardiovascular events in hypertensive patients.
- The study analyzed data from participating and non-participating medical centers to determine factors influencing their decision to join, including socio-economic status and hospital performance metrics.
- Findings revealed that urban centers, those with higher incomes, and hospitals with prior research experience were more likely to participate, suggesting that improving engagement with lesser-involved facilities could enhance future recruitment for clinical trials.*
Background: Single-pill combinations (SPCs) of three low-dose antihypertensive drugs can improve hypertension control but are not widely available. A key issue for any combination product is the contribution of each component to efficacy and tolerability. This trial compared a new triple SPC called GMRx2, containing telmisartan, amlodipine, and indapamide, with dual combinations of components for efficacy and safety.
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- A study utilizing data from the Veterans Health Administration examined trends in the initial treatment regimens for newly diagnosed hypertension from 2000 to 2019, focusing on the use of monotherapy versus dual therapy.
- Initial monotherapy prescriptions increased across all levels of pretreatment systolic blood pressure, while the use of dual therapy declined over the same period.
- The findings highlight a gap between recommended treatment guidelines and the actual medications prescribed to Veterans with high blood pressure, particularly those with systolic BP levels of 160 mm Hg or higher.
Background: Antihypertensive medication use patterns have likely been influenced by changing costs and accessibility over the past 3 decades. This study examines the relationships between patent exclusivity loss, medication costs, and national health policies on antihypertensive medication use.
Methods: Using 1996 to 2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data of US adults with hypertension taking at least 1 antihypertensive medication, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis.