Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide Combination vs Amlodipine in Patients With Hypertension, Diabetes, and Albuminuria.

A 24-week Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Valsartan in Combination With Hydrochlorothiazide Versus Amlodipine on Arterial Compliance in Patients With Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes and Albuminuria

The purpose of this study is assess if treatment with valsartan and a diuretic, hydrochlorothiazide, has beneficial effects in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, and albuminuria (protein in the urine) compared with amlodipine. In particular, the study will assess whether the treatment will decrease the stiffness of the blood vessels.

Inclusion Criteria:

• type 2 diabetes
• elevated blood pressure and pulse pressure
• albuminuria

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe hypertension
• History of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm
• Liver, kidney (not caused by diabetes), or pancreas disease
• Type 1 diabetes or uncontrolled type 2 diabetes
• Allergy to certain medications used to treat high blood pressure

Other protocol-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria may apply.