Treatment of pediatric hypertension

We conducted a MEDLINE search from January 1966-March 1999 to obtain inform ation on clinical trials of treatment of pediatric hypertension. An article was selected for review if it described a randomized or nonrandomized stud y; randomized studies were given priority. Case reports were considered whe n studies were unavailable. Review articles were useful in identifying refe rences. According to data we collected, hypertension is present in 1-3% of the pediatric population Nonpharmacologic treatment may be effective initia lly in those with mild to moderate disease or as an adjunct to drug therapy . Drugs for treatment of chronic hypertension include calcium channel block ers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics, and beta-blockers . Patient and drug characteristics determine therapy. Intravenous labetalol , nicardipine, and nitroprusside are effective for treating hypertensive em ergencies.