Abstract
A key component of diabetes management is a reduction in blood pressure (BP). Antihypertensive medication should be initiated in all diabetics with BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg.
In diabetic patients with high normal BP (130–139/85–89 mm Hg), antihypertensive therapy can be recommended only in those with microalbuminuria. Based on data emerging from the latest clinical trials, the systolic BP goal should be 130–139 mm Hg, if possible, closer to the lower limit of this range.
In cases where lifestyle modifi cations have failed to achieve BP goals, drug treatment in indicated