A groundbreaking study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023 in Philadelphia has introduced zilebesiran, an experimental medication offering a new approach to controlling high blood pressure.
This novel treatment could revolutionize the way hypertension is managed.
The Phase 2 of the KARDIA study focused on zilebesiran, a cutting-edge RNA interference agent targeting angiotensinogen (AGT). AGT plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation, primarily produced in the liver.
The study’s lead, Dr. George L. Bakris from the University of Chicago Medicine, emphasized the importance of this research due to the high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and its associated risks.
Study Design and Impressive Findings
The study involved 394 participants with mild-to-moderate high blood pressure. They received varying doses of zilebesiran or a placebo through subcutaneous injections. Remarkable findings over six months included:
- Significant reductions in 24-hour average systolic blood pressure, with decreases of over 10 mm Hg in the zilebesiran groups compared to the placebo.
- Participants receiving 300 mg and 600 mg doses experienced an average systolic blood pressure reduction of 15 mm Hg or more at the three-month mark.
- At six months, recipients of zilebesiran showed even more substantial reductions in systolic blood pressure without needing additional medications.
- Achieving systolic blood pressure measurements of 130 mm Hg or lower was more likely in the zilebesiran groups.
Safety and Efficacy
The study highlighted the safety of zilebesiran, with minimal adverse events reported, mostly mild reactions at the injection site. No significant changes in kidney or liver function were observed, underlining the drug’s safety profile.
Dr. Bakris emphasized the potential of zilebesiran in providing sustained blood pressure control with infrequent dosing. Such an approach could significantly enhance medication adherence, thereby improving overall patient outcomes.
Key Takeaways
Zilebesiran stands out as a promising new treatment for hypertension.
Its ability to effectively and safely lower blood pressure with just quarterly or biannual doses could change the landscape of heart disease care, offering a simpler, more efficient solution for managing high blood pressure.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about blood pressure drug that may increase risk of sudden cardiac arrest, and these teas could help reduce high blood pressure.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about nutrient that could strongly lower high blood pressure, and results showing this novel antioxidant may help reverse blood vessels aging by 20 years.
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