TABLE 1.

Inclusion and exclusion criteria for a randomized, clinical trial designed to increase adherence to hypertension medications through behavioural modification

Inclusion criteria

History of diastolic blood pressure higher than 90 mmHg and/or systolic blood pressure higher than 140 mmHg, and untreated; or current hypertension treatment requiring alteration in the opinion of the physician

Aged 18 to 79 years and, if female, unable to become pregnant

Willingness to give informed consent

Exclusion criteria

If female, pregnant or breast-feeding, or of childbearing potential

Taking any investigational drug given within 30 days of initiation of therapy, and participation in other clinical studies while enrolled in this protocol

Undergoing peritoneal dialysis

Presence of any of the following conditions:

Cardiovascular disorders – Renovascular hypertension – Cerebrovascular accident or current transient ischemic attacks within the past six months – Myocardial infarction, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty or coronary artery bypass graft within the past six months – Clinically significant atrioventricular conduction disturbances, arrhythmias and/or tachyarrhythmias – Significant signs of heart failure

Allergies/hypersensitivity – Known hypersensitivity or contraindication to irbesartan, or any other angiotensin receptor blocker

Other – Requiring active treatment for substance abuse within the past two years – Mentally or legally incapacitated – Any other condition or therapy that, in the investigator’s opinion, or as indicated in the prescribing information for irbesartan, might pose a risk to the patient or interfere with the study objectives