Impact of calcium channel blockers on cognitive function
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assessing the impact of calcium channel blockers on cognitive function in the very elderly
IRAS ID
113732
Contact name
Ruth Peters
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Research summary
Background: The fastest growing sector of the population are those aged >=80 years. This group are at high risk of high blood pressure and cognitive decline/dementia. High blood pressure also increases risk of cognitive decline/dementia. There is evidence that a particular type of blood pressure lowering drug (a calcium channel blocker (CCB)) may lower risk of dementia in younger elderly but evidence is mixed in those >=80. Some studies suggest that CCBs are associated with reduced risk and some show the opposite. There have been no clinical trials using CCBs in those >=80. UK NICE guidelines advocate treating high blood pressure at this age to reduce cardiovascular risk. CCBs are recommended as first line treatment. It is important that we know whether they impact on cognitive function (positive or negative) in this age group. This study is the first step to examine this area.
The study will follow 350 of those >=80, receiving drug treatment for high blood pressure without current cognitive impairment/dementia and recruited from GP practice. Participants will visit the GP twice for their cognitive function to be tested at entry into the study and at one year. A standard test will be used and should last not more than 30-45 minutes. Additional data relating to the participants, demographics and behaviour that influence cognitive function, including gender, age, height, weight, blood pressure, smoking and alcohol consumption will be collected at the two visits. To help minimise impact to the participant data on concurrent medication, past medical history and any hospitalisations or cardiovascular events occurring during the year will be collected if possible from practice records.
Based on prior GP survey ~50% will be taking CCBs. The change in cognitive function in those taking CCBs will be compared to those not taking CCBs.
This forms a building block for subsequent clinical trials/studies.REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/0635
Date of REC Opinion
21 May 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion