A new scientific report suggests that taking just one pill that combines two or more blood pressure medications may help people lower their blood pressure more quickly and effectively.
This approach could also reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The statement, published in the journal Hypertension, highlights the benefits of single-pill combination medications for people with high blood pressure.
Nearly half of all adults in the U.S.—about 122 million people—have high blood pressure, which is defined as 130/80 mm Hg or higher. High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and dementia.
The American Heart Association recommends a mix of healthy habits and medications to manage blood pressure. For those with very high levels (140/90 mm Hg or above), doctors often suggest starting with two medications right away—ideally combined in a single pill.
Dr. Jordan B. King, a professor at the University of Utah, said many people need two or more medications to control their blood pressure, but taking multiple pills every day can be confusing or hard to maintain. A single combination pill makes it easier for patients to take their medications properly and reach their target blood pressure faster.
It’s important to note that these single-pill combinations are not the same as “polypills.” Single-pill combinations only include blood pressure drugs, while polypills may also contain cholesterol-lowering medication or aspirin for people who need several treatments to lower heart risk.
There are several types of drugs used to treat high blood pressure, including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics. These are often combined into one pill. But even with treatment, fewer than half of all adults with high blood pressure are able to bring their numbers down to the recommended levels.
The new report outlines several key benefits of single-pill combinations:
First, treatment is simpler. Instead of slowly adjusting multiple medications one by one, people can start with a single pill that includes two drugs. Fewer pills mean it’s easier for patients to stay on track.
Second, it’s easier for doctors to prescribe. For many patients, especially those with more severe high blood pressure, the recommended starting option is a pill that combines either an ACE inhibitor or ARB with a calcium channel blocker.
Third, it leads to better long-term health. Studies show that people who take these combination pills have a 15% to 30% lower risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hospital visits. They are also more likely to live longer and healthier lives.
Fourth, combination pills are more cost-effective. Heart disease costs the U.S. over $400 billion each year. Helping people control their blood pressure could save money for both patients and the health care system. Studies show that combination pills often cost less over time than taking several separate medications.
Still, there are some challenges. Some doctors may not be familiar with all the combination options. Others worry about not being able to adjust the doses of individual drugs as easily. Insurance plans may not cover these pills or may charge more for them.
Some high-risk patients—such as those with diabetes, kidney disease, or heart failure—need more research to know if these pills work safely for them.
Right now, there are about 200 different combinations used in the U.S., and the four most common medications are already available as single-pill options. Researchers hope that making more triple or even four-drug pills could simplify treatment even further and improve results.
Dr. King says if these combination pills became more common, we could see big improvements in how well blood pressure is managed across the population. This could help prevent many heart attacks and strokes, lower medical costs, and help millions of people live longer, healthier lives.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and natural coconut sugar could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness.
For more health information, please see recent studies about added sugar in your diet linked to higher blood pressure, and results showing vitamin D could improve blood pressure in people with diabetes.
The study was published in Hypertension.
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