Dundee research could lead to blood pressure breakthrough
ByNews reporter
Millions of people all over the world who suffer from high blood pressure could benefit from research done partly at Dundee University.
The study has found combining two medicines at the outset of treatment, rather than starting patients on one drug and adding another later, produces faster results and fewer side effects.
There are estimated to be about 10 million people in the UK with high blood pressure and the combined treatment could reduce the chance of them suffering strokes or heart attacks.
It is even possible to put the two drugs together in a single pill, which is easier for patients and makes them more likely to take their medication.
The research, led by Cambridge University and also involving Glasgow University and British Hypertension Society, has been published in medical journal The Lancet.
The new study of 1250 patients showed the combination treatment lowers blood pressure faster and more effectively than conventional treatment, with a 25% better response over the first six months.
