In heart failure, what is the typical blood pressure target range?

• A. Targets are always <120/70 mmHg.
• B. Typical targets are <130/80 mmHg, individualized per patient.
• C. There is no target range.
• D. Targets should be >140/90.

Answer: (B)

In heart failure, blood pressure is managed to reduce the workload on the heart while ensuring enough perfusion to organs; the goal is to lower afterload without causing hypotension or renal compromise. The typical target is below 130/80 mmHg, but this should be tailored to the individual’s tolerance, comorbidities, and overall clinical picture. Some patients—such as the elderly, those with low perfusion, or with kidney impairment—may need a higher or more gradual target to avoid adverse effects from too rapid or excessive lowering of BP. Setting a lower target than 130/80 for everyone isn’t appropriate, and aiming for a high BP like above 140/90 would worsen heart failure control. There is a reasonable range around this goal, adjusted per patient, rather than a universal single value.