Innovative Medication Shows Promise in Managing Uncontrolled Hypertension by Targeting Aldosterone Production

Hypertension remains a significant global health challenge, affecting approximately one in three adults worldwide and ranking as the top modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. A substantial subset of hypertensive patients, up to 30%, suffer from aldosterone dysregulation—an imbalance often linked to obesity and primary aldosteronism—that frequently goes undiagnosed or inadequately treated.

Recent research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) introduces a promising development in this area: the Launch-HTN study, which investigated the safety and effectiveness of lorundrostat, a novel aldosterone synthase inhibitor. This large-scale Phase 3 trial involved 1,083 participants with uncontrolled or resistant hypertension who were already on 2 to 5 antihypertensive medications.

The findings demonstrated that adding lorundrostat to existing treatment regimens resulted in significant blood pressure reductions and was well tolerated across a diverse patient demographic. This trial marks the largest of its kind testing an aldosterone synthase inhibitor for hypertension, paving the way for a potential new therapeutic option.

Dr. Manish Saxena, leading the research from Queen Mary University of London, highlighted the importance of this breakthrough. He explained that despite current treatments, over 40% of hypertensive individuals do not reach their blood pressure goals, underscoring the urgent need for innovative therapies. Since aldosterone plays a critical role in blood pressure regulation and related complications such as heart failure and kidney damage, targeting its production offers a promising strategy.

Lorundrostat's development introduces a targeted approach, blocking the adrenal glands' production of aldosterone. The study's results suggest that once approved for clinical use, lorundrostat could serve as a vital addition to hypertension management, especially for those with resistant forms of the condition.

This milestone signifies a step forward in personalized medicine for hypertension, with the potential to improve outcomes for millions affected worldwide.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-drug-tackles-uncontrolled-hypertension-aldosterone.html