Here are the key JNC VIII recommendations for hypertension treatment:
- For patients aged 60 and older, treat to a blood pressure target of less than 150/90 mmHg. Initiate pharmacologic treatment if systolic BP is 150 mmHg or higher or diastolic BP is 90 mmHg or higher.
- For patients under age 60, treat to a blood pressure target of less than 140/90 mmHg. Initiate treatment if systolic BP is 140 mmHg or higher or diastolic BP is 90 mmHg or higher.
- Recommended first-line medications for non-black patients include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, thiazide diuretics, or calcium channel