In a nutshell
This review analyzed a number of studies which evaluated the efficacy and safety of a new combination drug (LCZ696) in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Some background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a class of diseases that involve the heart, the blood vessels or both. Examples of CVDs include strokes, heart attacks and heart failure. High blood pressure, or hypertension (HTN), is a major indicator of CVDs and a risk factor for their development. Controlling hypertension is therefore crucial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
LCZ696 is a new combination drug consisting of two antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering) agents. LCZ696 consists of a AHU377, a neprilysin inhibitor (NEPi), and valsartan (diovan), an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). ARB's prevent the reabsorption of sodium and water from the kidneys into the blood. This lowers the volume of fluid in the body, which in turn lowers blood pressure. AHU377 prevents the breakdown of normally produced proteins that are responsible for lowering blood pressure. While the benefits of valsartan in reducing blood pressure are well documented, the use NEPi's as antihypertensive agents is still under investigation.
Methods & findings
In one study, 1328 patients were treated with different doses of LCZ696, valsartan alone, AHU377 alone, or a placebo (a substance without any medicinal effect). LCZ696 showed a higher reduction of diastolic blood pressure (DBP; the pressure measured in the arteries when the heart muscle is relaxed between beats) compared to all other treatment groups. On average, 200mg LCZ696 reduced DBP by 5.28 mmHg while 400mg LCZ696 reduced DBP by 6.01 mmHg. LCZ696 was not associated with any additional adverse effects, such as angioedema (severe swelling, a known side effect of NEPi's).
Another study involving 427 patients measured reduction in systolic pressure (SBP; the pressure measured in the arteries when the heart muscle contracts) with LCZ696 compared to valsartan. LCZ696 was shown to be superior in reducing SBP compared to valsartan in both high and low doses.
The bottom line
This review concluded that LCZ696 can be effectively used to treat HTN without the risk of adverse events.
The fine print
Some of the writers of this review are employees of Novartis, the developer of LCZ696.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician regarding the risks and benefits of LCZ696 in the treatment of hypertension.
Published By :
Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs
Date :
Jul 01, 2013
