In this episode, we compare hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone, but specifically from a cardiovascular outcomes perspective when used in patients with hypertension.
Key Concepts
- Chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide, and indapamide are available thiazide diuretics for treatment of hypertension; however, hydrochlorothiazide is the most commonly used agent.
- Chlorthalidone is more potent in reducing blood pressure but also is associated with a higher risk of electrolyte abnormalities compared to HCTZ.
- Recent studies for cardiovascular outcomes show that chlorthalidone is not better than HCTZ in preventing CV outcomes, but increases risk for hypokalemia, need for monitoring and even potassium supplementation.
References