Antihypertensives in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review target organ outcomes and current pharmacologic treatment options for children and adolescents with hypertension.

Recent findings: There is an increased prevalence of pediatric hypertension. Following the 2017 AAP clinical practice guidelines, there is a growing body of literature illustrating the association between pediatric hypertension and end organ damage, though few studies looking at long-term outcomes. There is also new data to support the use of n-of-1 trials to identify the best antihypertensive therapy for an individual. Pediatric hypertension is increasing in prevalence and is associated with end organ damage. Treatment of hypertensive children has been shown to reverse end organ damage. Due to the lack of large, randomized trials assessing antihypertensive classes against one another, n-of-1 studies may serve as a viable and safe option to optimize patient care.

Keywords: Antihypertensive; Blood pressure; Child; Hypertension; Pediatric.