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The advent of the calcium channel blocker Amlodipine and the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor Zofenopril in a single pill combination (SPC) has been a significant development in the realm of hypertension treatment. However, an in-depth analysis of the real-world application of this combination and its potential to enhance patient adherence to therapy is essential.
In this article, we delve into the clinical characteristics and quantification of patients prescribed with this combination, providing a snapshot of potential SPC users.
Methodology of the Study
This study was a retrospective observational study utilizing data from the IQVIA Italian Longitudinal Patient Database.
The study's focus was on adult patients who were first prescribed with amlodipine and zofenopril between 1 July 2011 and 30 June 2020. The demographic and clinical characteristics of these patients were extracted for analysis.
Treatment adherence was evaluated using the proportion of days covered (PDC) method.
The potential number of patients eligible for an amlodipine and zofenopril SPC was also estimated.
Patient Characteristics
Data from 2,394 hypertensive patients, with a mean age of 68.6 years ±12.7, and 52.6% male were treated with amlodipine and zofenopril.
Adherence to Therapy
The majority of patients (54.5%) were low adherent (PDC <40%), 25.9% were intermediate adherent and only 19.6% were high adherent (>80%) to therapy.
Potential SPC Candidates
The study estimated that around 42,500 adult hypertensive patients were prescribed the extemporaneous combination in 2019 in Italy, and these patients could potentially be eligible for treatment with amlodipine and zofenopril SPC.
Conclusions and Future Implications
The administration of the extemporaneous combination of zofenopril and amlodipine in hypertensive patients is a prevalent practice in Italy.
The development of a SPC can be a viable treatment option to simplify therapy and to increase adherence in hypertensive patients who are already on the two monotherapies in combination.
Ensuring High-Quality Treatment
The results of this study suggest that the administration of the extemporaneous combination of zofenopril and amlodipine in hypertensive patients is a common practice in Italy.
The development of a SPC can be a viable treatment option to simplify therapy and to increase adherence in hypertensive patients who are already on the two monotherapies in combination.
Steps Towards Improving Patient Adherence
The study results underscore the need for measures to improve the adherence of patients to their hypertension treatment.
The potential of SPC in enhancing patient adherence is significant, given that it simplifies therapy and reduces the possibility of missing a dose.
The Future of Hypertension Treatment
The advent of SPCs like the combination of amlodipine and zofenopril represents a significant development in hypertension treatment.
As we move forward, patient-centric approaches that simplify treatment regimens and enhance patient adherence will be crucial in managing this prevalent condition.
Final Thoughts
This study provides valuable insights into the real-world administration of the extemporaneous combination of zofenopril and amlodipine in hypertensive patients, highlighting the potential of SPC for improving patient adherence.
As we strive towards better management of hypertensive conditions, the development of SPCs that simplify therapy and enhance patient adherence will play a crucial role.
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