Women May Need Lower Doses of Blood Pressure Meds—And Still See Better Results
A new study suggests that women with high blood pressure (hypertension) may not need as high a dose of medication as men to achieve the same—or even better—results. Researchers analyzed data from over 14,000 patients in the Netherlands and found that, while women and men were prescribed a similar number of blood pressure medications, women received lower daily doses. Surprisingly, more women successfully controlled their blood pressure compared to men.
What the Study Found
• Women were prescribed an average of 1.8 blood pressure medications per day, just like men, but at lower doses.
• They were more likely to receive beta-blockers and diuretics, while men were more often prescribed ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers.
• Despite lower doses, women achieved better blood pressure control (54.5% vs. 49.8% in men).
Why It Matters
This study highlights that men and women may respond differently to medication, suggesting that blood pressure treatments should be more personalized. Doctors might need to adjust dosages and medication types based on sex to ensure the best results for every patient.
The Takeaway
If you or someone you know is managing high blood pressure, this research suggests that one-size-fits-all prescriptions may not be the best approach. More personalized treatment could lead to better health outcomes—without unnecessary medication.
