Khaberni - Researchers have found a new drug called "Paxdrostat" that provides protection extending to 24 hours from high blood pressure, including in the early morning when the risk of having heart attacks increases.
Blood pressure depends largely on the hormone "Aldosterone" secreted by the adrenal glands, which regulates sodium and potassium levels in the body. However, excessive secretion of this hormone leads to salt and water retention, raising blood pressure.
While traditional medications work to block the effects of "Aldosterone," the new drug from "AstraZeneca" features a different mechanism—it stops the production of the hormone itself, not just its effect.
A global trial named BAX24 involved 218 patients from 79 locations around the world, all of whom had treatment-resistant high blood pressure, which means their blood pressure remained high despite taking at least three types of medication.
The study was led by Professor Brian Williams from University College London (UCL), and the results showed that the drug maintained its effectiveness throughout the day, significantly and continuously reducing blood pressure.
The participants in the trial either took "Paxdrostat" or a placebo once daily in tablet form, in addition to their usual treatment. Their blood pressure was monitored using a 24-hour blood pressure monitoring device (ABPM), which provides more accurate readings than clinic measurements.
After 12 weeks, the patients who took "Paxdrostat" recorded a significant reduction in blood pressure throughout the day, including at night and in the early morning, when the risk of heart attacks and strokes is at its highest.
The results of the study were presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association in New Orleans, following an earlier trial involving 800 patients, which showed that the medication reduced blood pressure by about 9 to 10 millimeters of mercury more than the placebo over 12 weeks.
Approximately 40% of the patients reached healthy blood pressure levels, compared to only 20% in the other group, without recording any unexpected side effects.
Other studies suggest that such a reduction in blood pressure can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by 17%, stroke by 27%, heart failure by 28%, and death by 13%.
Williams, a professor of cardiovascular science, said: "The results are very impressive, both in the magnitude of the blood pressure reduction and in its persistence over 24 hours. The efficacy of this drug is unprecedented and indicates the pivotal role of the hormone 'Aldosterone' in treatment-resistant high blood pressure. We are looking at a real advancement and a promising treatment option for patients who are difficult to manage with current medications."
