A medical research team from the Faculty of Medicine at the Ragama Medical Faculty of the University of Kelaniya has developed a new drug to help control high blood pressure, university officials said.
The newly developed medication combines three types of antihypertensive drugs into a single tablet, replacing the commonly prescribed triple-pill regimen for hypertension patients.
According to clinical findings, the drug can reduce the risk of stroke caused by ruptured blood vessels due to high blood pressure by approximately 60 percent.
Neurologist Dr. Bimsara Senanayake, speaking at a media briefing, said the study showed significant potential in preventing recurrent strokes among patients suffering from hypertension-related complications.
“About 80 percent of stroke cases occur either due to blocked blood vessels or bleeding caused by ruptured arteries. Our research found that by effectively controlling blood pressure, this new medication can reduce the risk of recurrence by up to 60 percent,” Dr. Senanayake said.
Cardiologist Dr. Gotabhaya Ranasinghe noted that around 35 percent of Sri Lankans between the ages of 30 and 80 suffer from high blood pressure, many of whom remain untreated or unaware of their condition.
“This new drug helps bring blood pressure under control quickly and maintains stability throughout the day, according to test results. It is an important breakthrough in preventing hypertension and related health risks,” Dr. Ranasinghe said. (Newswire)