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[BACK TO ARTICLES]The benefits of ‘GAP’ cover in treating high blood pressure
2017/09/21 10:49:17Supplementation for use by those fighting chronic diseases
World Heart Day takes place on 29th September every year, drawing attention to cardiovascular disease and the need for prevention through the adoption of healthy lifestyles. According to the World Health Organisation, a third of South African adults have high blood pressure or hypertension as it is called in medical circles, which can increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease or stroke.1
Knowing whether you suffer from hypertension is an important first step in preventing cardiovascular disease and promoting overall health and well-being. Once diagnosed, it is important to stay on treatment and consult with the relevant healthcare practitioners. ACEI-GAP is one of a range of supplements recently launched by the OTC division of Adcock Ingram and is especially formulated for use in patients who are on antihypertensive treatment. ACEI-GAP assists in the maintenance of the essential nutrients that may be depleted as a result of high blood pressure and the treatment thereof.2 Containing Vitamin D3 and zinc, ACEI-GAP is an adjunct to antihypertensive therapy with a group of medicines called ACE Inhibitors, and hence the name ACEI-GAP. Vitamin D3 and zinc play a role in the system which regulates blood pressure in the body.3,4
The impact of ACE Inhibitors has been shown to reduce the levels of Vitamin D3 in the body.5 Many South Africans are already compromised in terms of Vitamin D levels, despite living in a sunny country.6 Exposure to the sun generates Vitamin D3, which can further be supplemented by the intake of oily fish and some fortified foods.6 Long-term use of ACE Inhibitors also results in the depletion of zinc, which may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, commonly known as hardening of the arteries, amongst other effects.7
The Vitamin D3 and zinc contained in ACEI-GAP, are the essential nutrients that may be depleted as a result of high blood pressure and the treatment with ACE Inhibitors.2 ACEI-GAP is formulated to offer a convenient once daily dosage and each capsule contains 800 international units of Vitamin D3 and 15 milligrams of zinc.2
All the products in the GAP range are supported by significant clinical data and have been formulated to offer a convenient single daily dosage. Patients seeking further information should speak to their doctor or pharmacist about the GAP range of supplements.
Further information on the GAP range is available at: www.adcockgap.co.za
ACEI-GAP. Each capsule contains Vitamin D3 800 IU; Zinc 15 mg. For full prescribing information refer to the package insert. 1049794 09/2017
Adcock Ingram Limited. Reg. No. 1949/034385/06. Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa. Tel. +27 11 635 0000 www.adcock.com
References:
1. Lloyd-Sherlock P, Beard J, Minicuci N, et al. Hypertension among older adults in low and middle-income countries: prevalence, awareness and control. Int J Epidemiol 2014;43:116-128
2. ACEI-GAP , Package insert, 04/2017
3. Chun Li Y, Qiao G, Uskokovic M, et al. Vitamin D: a negative endocrine regulator of the renin-angiotensin system and blood pressure. J Steroid Biochem Molec Biol 2004;89-90:387-392.
4. Cohen N, Golik A. Zinc balance and medications commonly used in the management of heart failure. Heart Fail Rev 2006;11:19-24.
5. Sohl E, van Schoor NM, de Jongh RT, et al. The impact of medication on vitamin D status in older individuals. Eur J Endocrinol 2012;166:477-485.
6. Ferder M, Inserra F, Manucha W. The world pandemic of vitamin D deficiency could possibly be explained by cellular inflammatory response activity induced by the renin-angiotensin system. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2013;304:C1027-C1039.
7. Braun LA, Rosenfeld F. Pharmaco-nutrient interactions - a systemic review of zinc and antihypertensive therapy. Int J Cain Pract 2013;67(8):717-725..
Notes to the Editor
The Adcock Ingram Over the Counter (OTC) division has recently launched a comprehensive range of 10 health supplements, each specifically formulated to replenish vitamins and minerals that have been depleted as a result of chronic (long-term) diseases, or the treatment thereof. Research shows that chronic diseases very often result in the depletion of certain vitamins and minerals, while the treatment itself may also result in depletion of those same essential vitamins and minerals.8
Vitamins and minerals are a diverse group of substances that play an important role in patient well-being. Compared to proteins, carbohydrates and fats, the body needs very small amounts of these nutrients to function efficiently.9 A deficiency often occurs over time and can be caused by a number of factors including an increased need for a particular vitamin or mineral, difficulty in absorption or a dietary deficiency. In addition to the disease itself, treatment very often has a further depleting effect on necessary vitamins and nutrients, which then need to be supplemented.8
About the Adcock Ingram OTC division:
The OTC division competes in the self-medication pharmacy and FMCG sectors of the market, with a complement of 88 premium and economy brands. Well-known brands include Citro-Soda, Corenza Para-C and Allergex ND. The portfolio includes pain, cough and cold, allergy, digestive well-being and energy medications.
References continued:
8. Mineral Deficiency. [cited 2017 May 2]. Available from: http://www.healthline.com/health/mineral-deficiency#overview1
9. Eat for life: The Food and Nutrition Board’s Guide to Reducing Your Risk of Chronic Disease. [cited 2017 May 2]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235010/.
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