HDCN Article Review/Hyperlink

Borhani NO, Mercuri M, Borhani PA, Buckalew VM, et al

Final outcome results of the multicenter isradipine diuretic atherosclerosis study (MIDAS): A randomized controlled trial

J Am Med Assoc (Sep) 276:785-791 1996

The onslaught of calcium channel blocker studies suggesting adverse effects continues. This one is different, however, in that it is a prospective randomized study rather than a case-controlled retrospective study. The goal was to see if twice-daily isradipine would reduce the rate of progression of carotid thickening in hypertensive patients, as assessed by quantitative B-mode imaging.

No differences in intimal-medial thickness were found between isradipine and hydrochlorothiazide. However, there was a higher incidence of vascular events (MI, stroke, CHF, angina, and sudden death) in the isradipine group. (jtd)

The full abstract is available at the JAMA site. You will need to register with the JAMA before being allowed to access this material. Once you have registered, click on the links below:
Abstract
Press Release