Treatment of pediatric hypertension.

We conducted a MEDLINE search from January 1966-March 1999 to obtain information on clinical trials of treatment of pediatric hypertension. An article was selected for review if it described a randomized or nonrandomized study; randomized studies were given priority. Case reports were considered when studies were unavailable. Review articles were useful in identifying references. According to data we collected, hypertension is present in 1-3% of the pediatric population. Nonpharmacologic treatment may be effective initially in those with mild to moderate disease or as an adjunct to drug therapy. Drugs for treatment of chronic hypertension include calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics, and beta-blockers. Patient and drug characteristics determine therapy. Intravenous labetalol, nicardipine, and nitroprusside are effective for treating hypertensive emergencies.