PHARMACO-EPIDEMIOLOGY OF ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN RUSSIA: THE RESULTS OF THE PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY PIFAGOR III

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the pharmaco-epidemiological study of arterial hypertension (AH) in Russia (PIFAGOR III). The survey included both doctors (961 questionnaires) and patients with AH (3030 questionnaires) from 38 Russian cities. The pharmacological therapy analysis demonstrated that the most widely prescribed classes of antihypertensives are ACE inhibitors, beta-adrenoblockers, diuretics, and calcium antagonists. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists are prescribed more often, while “old” drugs with central mechanism of antihypertensive action become less popular. Detailed analysis was performed for each class of antihypertensive agents. In particular, the majority of the patients taking ACE inhibitors receive enalapril (44%). The most popular agents among beta-blockers are bisoprolol (41%) and metoprolol (31,9%), among calcium antagonists – amlodipine (53%), and among diuretics – indapamide (67%). The frequency of original medication prescription was 46% and 39%, based on the survey data for doctors and patients, respectively. An increase was observed in the proportion of AH patients receiving long-term (79%) and combined (74%) antihypertensive therapy. Average number of antihypertensive drugs taken by a patient with AH increased from 1,72 in 2002 to 2,22. Target blood pressure levels (<140/90 mm Hg) were achieved in 69%. Patients’ awareness of AH and its complications, as well as patients’ motivation and therapy compliance, has also increased. In 58% of the patients, the monthly cost of AH medications is under 5000 roubles.