Comparison of calcium antagonists with other antihypertensive agents.

The demonstration that antihypertensive drug treatment reduces mortality and morbidity in mild hypertension has extended the indications for treatment. Verapamil, nitrendipine, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs are all equally effective in reducing blood pressure. The choice of drug depends on the presence or absence of specific contra-indications and the occurrence of side effects in individual patients.