Effect of the Direct Renin Inhibitor Aliskiren on Endothelial Function and Arterial Stiffness in Diabetic Subjects

Effect of the Direct Renin Inhibitor Aliskiren on Endothelial Function and Arterial Stiffness in Diabetic Subjects

The study will evaluate the effects of the direct renin inhibitor, aliskiren, on flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery and on central aortic pressure in diabetic patients with pre-hypertension or Stage 1 hypertension.

Patients are double-blind placebo-controlled randomized to either aliskiren or sugar pill/placebo. Effects on blood parameters and arteries are evaluated in both groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Type 2 diabetes
• prehypertension or Stage 1 hypertension

Exclusion Criteria:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Stage 2 hypertension
• CKD
• recent MI, revascularization, CVA or TIA