A clinical trial was done to evaluate the antihypertensive efficacy and side effects of amlodipine, a new long-acting calcium antagonist, in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension.

1) The study patients consisted of 18 men and 12 women, and the mean age was 49 years. Amlodipine monotherapy (5-10mg) was continued for 12 weeks.

2) Blood pressure dropped significantly in 4 weeks and in 8 weeks, and well maintained throughout the study period. The mean-pressure drop was 32.9/20.8mmHg after 12 weeks.

3) Heart rate did not change significantly with amlodipine therapy.

4) Optimal dose for effective pressure-drop was 10mg in 57% of patients. Overall good antihypertensive effect was achieved in 83% of patients.

5) All of the laboratory parameters including blood chemistry, glucose, lipid and electrolytes did not change significantly after 12 weeks.

6) Side effects were mild in nature(gastrointestinal discomfort in 3, dry mouth in 1, weakness in 1, dizziness in 1 and headache in 1 patient).

Amlodipine monotherapy with 5 to 10mg once a day regimen is effective and well tolerated in the patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension.