PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Anton H van den Meiracker AU - Stephanie Lankhorst AU - Joep HM van Esch AU - AH Jan Danser AU - Mariƫtte HW Kappers TI - Hypertension induced by antiangiogenic therapy: clinical and pathophysiological aspects AID - 10.1136/ejhpharm-2012-000094 DP - 2012 Jun 01 TA - European Journal of Hospital Pharmacy: Science and Practice PG - 327--329 VI - 19 IP - 3 4099 - http://ejhp.bmj.com/content/19/3/327.short 4100 - http://ejhp.bmj.com/content/19/3/327.full SO - Eur J Hosp Pharm2012 Jun 01; 19 AB - Angiogenesis inhibition with humanised monoclonal antibodies to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or with VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting VEGF receptors has become an established treatment for various forms of cancer. Unfortunately, inhibition of the VEGF pathway is associated with serious side effects including hypertension. The development of this hypertension is likely to be multifactorial with a major role of the endothelin system. Although initially considered as a toxic effect, the development of hypertension may predict a favourable antitumour response. As a consequence, hypertension should not be a reason for dose reduction or discontinuation of antiangiogenic therapy but should be treated with antihypertensive therapy according to existing guidelines.