UPDATES IN THE TREATMENT OF SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION: REVIEW OF RECENT GUIDELINES

Abstract

Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Proper management of SAH is essential to reduce cardiovascular, renal, and cerebrovascular events. This study aims to review the most recent updates in hypertension treatment based on national and international guidelines. The methodology used was a narrative literature review, consulting publications from 2018 to 2024, including the Brazilian Guidelines of Arterial Hypertension of 2020. The main advancements include redefining diagnostic blood pressure levels, prioritizing initial combination therapy with two fixed-dose antihypertensive drugs, and emphasizing intensive control in high-risk patients. Additionally, new therapeutic classes, such as SGLT2 inhibitors in hypertensive patients with diabetes or heart failure, have been incorporated. It is concluded that the updates favor greater therapeutic adherence and better clinical outcomes, highlighting the importance of individualized and multifactorial approaches in SAH treatment.