A Clinical Study to Evaluate Safety & Efficacy of the Combination of Aliskiren, Valsartan & Hydrochlorothiazide in Diabetic Hypertensive Nonresponder Patients

A 12-week, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo Controlled, Parallel Group Study Evaluating the Efficacy & Safety of Aliskiren in Patients With Diabetes & Hypertension Not Adequately Responsive to the Combination of Valsartan 160 mg & Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg

To evaluate the blood pressure lowering effect and safety of aliskiren used in combination with valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide in diabetic patients with essential hypertension, not adequately responsive to the combination of valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide

Inclusion Criteria

• Patients with essential hypertension
• Patients with a documented diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• Patients who are eligible and able to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria

• Severe hypertension
• Uncontrolled diabetes type I and II
• History or evidence of a secondary form of hypertension
• History of Hypertensive encephalopathy or cerebrovascular accident.

Other protocol-defined exclusion criteria may apply.