Comparative Effects of Amlodipine and Cilnidipine on Lipid Profile as an add-on drug to Baseline medication in Hypertensive Chronic Kidney Disease patients

Introduction: Dyslipidemia is highly prevalent in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity. Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs) such as amlodipine and cilnidipine are widely used as antihypertensives in CKD patients, but they differ in the metabolic effects. Cilnidipine is a novel Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB) that blocks both L and N-type calcium channels providing superior efficacy on lipid profile when compared to amlodipine.

Objectives: To compare the effects of amlodipine and cilnidipine on lipid profile parameters in hypertensive patients with CKD.

Methods: This study was a prospective observational one done in the Department of Nephrology at Government T.D. Medical College, Alappuzha for a period of one year (January 2016-December 2016) which was conducted in 90 hypertensive CKD patients aged 18-80 years. Out of this, 45 patients received amlodipine and 45 patients received cilnidipine along with the baseline medications. Fasting lipid parameters were assessed at baseline and after six months.

Results: Cilnidipine significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL levels. Amlodipine was associated with an increase in total cholesterol and LDL, with no significant improvement in triglycerides or HDL.

Conclusion: Cilnidipine confers a more favorable lipid profile compared to amlodipine in hypertensive CKD patients.