Clinical recommendation	Evidence rating	References
The target blood pressure in patients with diabetes is less than 130/80 mm Hg.	A	3, 5–9
ACE inhibitors and ARBs are preferred agents in the management of patients with hypertension and diabetes.	A	2, 8, 9, 12, 13
If target blood pressure is not achieved with an ACE inhibitor or ARB, addition of a thiazide diuretic is the preferred second-line therapy for most patients with diabetes.	B	7–9, 18–20
Beta blockers should be used as part of the initial antihypertensive regimen in patients with diabetes and a history of myocardial infarction, heart failure, coronary artery disease, or stable angina.	A	7–9, 11, 23
Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers should be reserved for patients with diabetes who cannot tolerate preferred antihypertensive agents or those who need additional agents to achieve target blood pressure.	A	2, 9, 19, 27, 28
Most patients with diabetes require therapy with a combination of antihypertensive agents to achieve target blood pressure.	C	2, 7–9