Sex-Specific Association Between Calcium-Channel Blocker Use and B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Levels in Elderly Hypertensive Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND

The effects of calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), particularly by sex, remain unclear.

METHODS AND

RESULTS

We retrospectively analyzed 412 elderly hypertensive patients with HFpEF (308 women, 104 men). Female CCB users had significantly lower B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Multivariable regression showed that CCB use was independently associated with lower BNP, higher EF, and lower tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient in women, but not in men.

CONCLUSIONS

CCB use, particularly amlodipine, may be associated with sex-specific hemodynamic benefits in hypertensive elderly women with HFpEF, independent of blood pressure control.