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A relevant number of patients with resistant hypertension do not achieve blood pressure (BP) dipping during nighttime. This inadequate nocturnal BP reduction is associated with elevated cardiovascular risks. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a nighttime intensification of BAT might improve nocturnal BP dipping. In this prospective observational study, non-dippers treated with BAT for at least 6 months were included. BAT programming was modified in a two-step intensification of nighttime stimulation at baseline and week 6. Twenty-four hours ambulatory BP (ABP) was measured at inclusion and after 3 months. A number of 24 patients with non- or inverted dipping pattern, treated with BAT for a median of 44 months (IQR 25-52) were included. At baseline of the study, patients were 66 ± 9 years old, had a BMI of 33 ± 6 kg/m

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system increases sodium retention in resistant hypertension. Baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) is an interventional method to reduce sympathetic overactivity in patients with resistant hypertension. This study aimed to assess the effect of BAT on urinary sodium excretion. From 2012 to 2015, consecutive patients with resistant hypertension and blood pressure (BP) above target despite polypharmacy strategies were consecutively included in this observational study. BAT was provided with the individual adaption of programmed parameters over the first months. 24-h urinary sodium excretion (UNa) was estimated at baseline and after 6 months using the Kawasaki formula in patients undergoing BAT. Additionally, the fractional sodium excretion, plasma renin activity, and aldosterone levels were assessed. Forty-two patients completed the 6-month follow-up period. Office systolic and ambulatory 24-h systolic BP at baseline were 169 ± 27 mmHg and 148 ± 16 mmHg despite a median intake of 7(3–9) antihypertensive drugs. After 6 months of BAT, systolic office BP decreased to 150 ± 29 mmHg (p