Hypertension is high blood pressure. If untreated, it can lead to a heart attack, stroke, heart failure or kidney damage. Many people who develop hypertension do not get treatment. Over the years, the pharmaceutical industry has developed many medicines to treat hypertension. Further research aims to reduce the toll of the condition called the 'silent killer'.
Disease: Hypertension
Last update: June 2008
Intro
FAQ: What does the future hold?
With over 40 agents currently in use, future research will seek to identify not only new treatments but the best combinations to use. The ultimate goal is to find ways of reducing the serious consequences of hypertension. This will involve organising and running clinical trials which may consist of thousands of patients.
An interesting approach is the development of a vaccine against a protein that normally causes blood vessels to constrict. Also being evaluated is a compound that restores the flexibility of arteries.
An interesting approach is the development of a vaccine against a protein that normally causes blood vessels to constrict. Also being evaluated is a compound that restores the flexibility of arteries.