Breakthrough Drug Shows Promise in Treating Hormone-Related Hypertension

Researchers led by Professor Morris Brown FRS at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a promising new treatment for primary aldosteronism, a condition characterized by excessive production of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands. This hormone regulates sodium and potassium levels in the blood and, when overproduced, leads to high blood pressure that is often difficult to control with standard medications.

The new medication, Baxdrostat, belongs to a novel class called aldosterone synthase inhibitors. During the phase 2a clinical trial, 15 patients with confirmed primary aldosteronism and resistant hypertension received Baxdrostat treatment. The drug was administered over 72 weeks with dosage adjustments and was generally well tolerated, except at the highest doses. Notably, Baxdrostat reduced aldosterone levels by about 90% and restored potassium balance, which is commonly disrupted in primary aldosteronism.

Remarkably, some patients maintained normal blood pressure and hormone levels even after stopping the drug, indicating potential for long-term remission or cure—an outcome previously achievable only through surgery or thermal therapy.

The findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine and announced at ENDO 2025 in San Francisco. These promising results suggest that Baxdrostat could be a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment option, helping to address the significant underdiagnosis of primary aldosteronism, which accounts for roughly 10% of hypertension cases.

According to Professor Brown, this development could encourage more doctors to test for this condition, especially in cases of difficult-to-control blood pressure. Experts like Dr. Mason Freeman of Harvard Medical School agree that these results mark a pivotal step toward targeting the biological root of primary aldosteronism. Larger clinical trials are now underway, aiming for regulatory approval within the next few years, offering hope for many patients worldwide.