Background and Objectives: Moexipril(Univasc?), a selective angiotensin converting enzyme(ACE) inhibitor, has recently been introduced as a new antihypertensive agent. We evaluated its anti-hypertensive effect and safety in mild to moderate hypertensive patients.
Materials and Methods: Moexipril, 7.5 mg or 15 mg, was administered once a day over 8 weeks period in 49 patients with hypertension (29 male, mean age : 52.2± 10.2 years). For the evaluation of the safety, laboratory tests were performed before and after treatment with moexipril. Changes in blood pressure, heart rate and electrocardiogram were also observed.
Results: 1) The mean blood pressures in the sitting position were 156.3 ± 12.2mmHg in systolic and 96.2±3.2 mmHg in diastolic before treatment, which were lowered to 136.2±13.1 mmHg and 88.8±6.4 mmHg, respectively, after 8 weeks of treatment(pO.05). 4) Laboratory tests revealed no significant abnormality by the treatment with moexipril. 5) No significant side effects except dry coughing(6 patients, 12.2%) were observed during the treatment period.
Conclusion: Moexipril 7.5 mg or 15 mg once a day is an effective and well tolerated treatment in the patients with mild to moderate hypertension. It also has a significant dose-dependent anti hypertensive effect.