AIM: To assess physicians preferences concerning the use of various groups of antihypertensive drugs in Russia.METHODS: Special questionnaires containing 8 questions related to preferential adherence to representatives of various groups of antihypertensive drugs were distributed among practicing physicians who routinely treated patients with hypertension.RESULTS: Of questionnaires returned between January and July of 2002 from 34 towns 530 were considered valid for analysis. Half of responses (50.4%) were from hospital physicians, 40.5% - from physicians of policlinics (outpatient clinics), 9.1% - from physicians working in other health care facilities. Most of respondents were internists (60.8%) and cardiologists (32.7%). Preferences concerning prescription of antihypertensive drugs were distributed in the following way: angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors - 32% (50% captopril and enalapril); beta-adrenoblockers - 27% (77% atenolol, metoprolol and propranolol); diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide) - 22%; calcium antagonists - 15% (81% verapamil, nifedipine, diltiazem, 64% - long acting preparations); angiotensin receptor blockers - 1.7%; centrally acting drugs - 1.5%; alpha-adrenoblockers - 0.8%.CONCLUSION: Tendencies in real life treatment of patients with hypertension in Russia should be considered positive. Basic antihypertensive therapy included agents (mostly long-acting) from 4 main classes and the use of outdated drugs such as clonidine and reserpine was low.
Antihypertensive Agents Drug Utilization