Novartis reveals trial data for “highly effective” blood pressure drugs

Novartis has announced that the first set of Phase III data for Exforge has produced positive results for its ability to treat high blood pressure.

The findings, which were presented to the American Society of Hypertension, show that patients suffering from the condition who were treated with the drug (amlodipine besylate/valsartan) “experienced strong reductions” in blood pressure levels. The study also revealed “excellent tolerability”.

In addition, Novartis also states that when treatment involved “two complimentary mechanisms of action” four in every five patients hit their recommended blood pressure. The manufacturer also states that Exforge was “safe and well tolerated” during the 5,000-person trial.

Dr James Shannon, managing director and head of development at Novartis Pharma AG, commented: “Exforge has been shown to be a highly effective and well tolerated blood pressure-lowering agent in a broad range of patients, particularly those who have the most severe high blood pressure and are among the most challenging to treat.”

Speaking on blood pressure more generally, Dr Shannon said: “High blood pressure – and its consequences – is the world’s number one killer, estimated to affect nearly one billion people.

“The overwhelming number of patients who remain uncontrolled despite current treatments speaks to the urgent need for new options.”

Norvatis has also announced today that new data has reaffirmed that the first orally effective direct rennin inhibitor – Rasilez – provides a “significant and sustained blood pressure response” over a 24-hour treatment period.

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