FDA Approves Triple-Drug Polypill for the Treatment of Hypertension

Do you have high blood pressure? Tired of taking multiple pills to lower your blood pressure? This just might be your solution. The FDA has approved a triple-drug polypill for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). The polypill, called Exforge HCT contains the calcium channel blocker amlodipine (Norvasc), the diuretic hydrocholorothiazide (HCTZ) and the angiotensin receptor blocker valsartan (Diovan). This is the only single tablet that combines three drugs for treatment of high blood pressure in the United States. This drug may be used as add-on/switch therapy for individuals not adequately controlled on any two components of the triple combination.

There have been several studies demonstrating, the less pills one takes the more compliant they are. Three drugs that treat hypertension being contained in one pill should assist us in becoming more compliant in taking our blood pressure lowering medications. The tablet comes in the following dosages:

Tablets: (amlodipine/valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide mg)

5/160/12.5

10/160/12.5

5/160/25

10/160/25

10/320/25

If you are taking these three pills separately; you should consult with your health care provider to see about the possibility of changing over to the polypill. You may find that you miss fewer dosages, becoming more compliant with taking your medications. By doing so will allow for better management of your blood pressure and your health.