Triple-Combination Pill Shows Superior Blood Pressure Control in Black African Adults with Hypertension
A single pill combining low doses of three blood pressure-lowering medications has proven more effective than standard treatment for Nigerian patients with uncontrolled hypertension, according to new research from the VERONICA-Nigeria trial presented at ESC Congress 2024.
Conducted in three hospital-based clinics in Nigeria, the trial investigated the effectiveness of GMRx2, a low-dose triple single-pill combination containing telmisartan, amlodipine, and indapamide, in Black African adults with uncontrolled hypertension. The study found that GMRx2 not only achieved better blood pressure control but was also well-tolerated by patients, offering a promising alternative to standard care.
“The burden of cardiovascular diseases in sub-Saharan Africa is growing rapidly. Despite high blood pressure being a major contributor, many patients remain untreated or inadequately managed," said Prof. Dike Ojji of the University of Abuja, Nigeria, who presented the study. "Our research shows that GMRx2 may help overcome these challenges and improve blood pressure control in Black African adults."
The trial included patients with uncontrolled hypertension (systolic BP 140–179 mmHg and/or diastolic BP 90–109 mmHg) who were either untreated or on monotherapy but needed intensified blood pressure management. The participants were randomly assigned to receive GMRx2 once daily in varying doses, with the goal of quickly achieving sustained blood pressure control below 135/85 mmHg. If needed, higher doses and additional treatments were introduced to meet the target.
The findings from the VERONICA-Nigeria trial provide crucial insights into hypertension management in the Black African population and highlight the potential of a triple single-pill combination to enhance treatment outcomes.