New mRNA Drug Shows Promise in Controlling High Blood Pressure
A new mRNA drug, Zilebesiran, is proving to be a game-changer for patients struggling to keep their high blood pressure under control. With just two injections a year, this revolutionary treatment is offering hope to those who have been unable to lower their blood pressure with traditional therapies.
According to the Kardia-2 study presented at the American College of Cardiology conference in Atlanta, up to 50% of patients abandon antihypertensive therapy within a year, putting them at risk for heart attack and stroke. Zilebesiran, currently in trials, works by interfering with messenger RNA to block the production of angiotensinogen in the liver, a protein that plays a key role in raising blood pressure.
“The results of the research are very encouraging,” explains Pasquale Perrone Filardi, president of the Italian Society of Cardiology. “By reducing the availability of this protein in the blood, Zilebesiran is able to lower blood pressure levels significantly, making it a promising option for those who struggle to follow traditional treatment plans.”
The Kardia-2 study, led by Akshay S. Desai, associate professor at Harvard Medical School, evaluated the efficacy and safety of Zilebesiran in 672 patients. The results showed an average reduction of up to 18 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure, with many patients experiencing stable results for up to 6 months after treatment.
These findings suggest that Zilebesiran has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of high blood pressure, offering a long-lasting and effective solution for patients who struggle to adhere to daily pill regimens. With further research and development, this new mRNA drug could become a game-changer in the fight against hypertension.