FDA OKs Atacand HCT for treatment of hypertension

Drug Store News, Oct 16, 2000

The FDA has approved AstraZeneca's Atacand HCT (candesartan cilexetil-hydrochlorothiazide) for second-line treatment of hypertension. Atacand HCT combines the angiotensin II receptor blocker Atacand with the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide for patients unable to control their hypertension with a single agent.

Atacand HCT is available in two combinations: 32 mg Atacand-12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide and 16 mg Atacand-12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide. Atacand HCT is not indicated for initial therapy. The combination of candesartan cliexetilhydrochlorothiazide has been evaluated in 12 controlled clinical trials involving approximately 4,600 hypertensive patients. Overall, Atacand HCT was well tolerated, AstraZeneca reported, maintaining a blood pressure lowering effect over a full 24-hour period.