Novartis: Diovan improves artery elasticity

Novartis has announced the publication of new study data showing that Diovan (valsartan) used in conjunction with hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) reduces stiffness in the arteries – a key sign of artery ageing related to the risk of stroke and heart attack.

It is the first study to show that Diovan and HCT can improve artery elasticity in patients with high blood pressure, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.

The combination of Diovan an HCT showed superior benefits on this indicator when compared to amlodipine.

Albumin exretion rate, a key kidney disease marker was reduced by 35 per cent in patients administered with Diovan and HCT compared to an increase of 24 per cent in patients treated with amlodipine.

Trevor Mundel, head of global development functions at Novartis Pharma, said: “These results demonstrate that Diovan/HCT improves artery elasticity to a greater extent than the widely used high blood pressure medicine amlodipine in these high-risk patients, adding to the spectrum of protective benefits provided by Diovan-based therapies.”

He added that the firm is continuing to show the efficacy of Diovan beyond the lowering of blood pressure, providing patients with genuine benefits for boosting the health of their arteries.

In July 2007, Novartis announced the results of a clinical study showing that Diovan and Rasilez (aliskiren) used together results in additive blood pressure reductions in patients.