Initial therapy for patients with uncomplicated hypertension.

Although commonly prescribed for hypertension, nonpharmacologic treatments have, at best, a minor adjunctive role to play. Current Canadian recommendations call for either a diuretic or beta blocker. If the diastolic blood pressure does not fall below 90 mmHg, a beta blocker or diuretic, respectively, should be added. Medications should be carefully adjusted until the BP is well controlled without adverse effects. About one-third of patients …