Researchers presented a new medication called lorundrostat at the annual meeting of the American College of Cardiology in Chicago that may help lower blood pressure in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension. In a Phase 2b clinical trial, patients who took lorundrostat with two or three existing hypertension drugs experienced a greater decrease in systolic blood pressure compared to those who received a placebo. Uncontrolled hypertension is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and kidney failure.
Hypertension is diagnosed when a person has a blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Patients with elevated blood pressure despite medication treatment were recruited for the trial. Lorundrostat, an aldosterone synthase inhibitor, works by reducing aldosterone levels, which in turn lowers salt levels and blood pressure. The study included a diverse group of participants, including a substantial number of Black individuals who are at higher risk for hypertension.
Results showed that participants who took a lower dose of lorundrostat saw a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to those who received a placebo. The drug is currently in the final phase of clinical trials, with potential approval expected within 12 to 18 months. However, side effects such as high potassium levels were observed in patients taking lorundrostat, needing close monitoring. Long-term studies and comparisons with other medications are recommended to further evaluate the effectiveness and safety of lorundrostat in managing hypertension.
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