A novel triple-combination pill, GMRx2, has shown promising results in Phase III clinical trials, potentially revolutionizing the treatment of hypertension. The research, supported by Australian investors and published in The Lancet, JAMA, and Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), indicates that GMRx2 is significantly more effective at controlling blood pressure than commonly used dual combinations.
Superior Efficacy and Tolerability
The largest of the Phase III trials, published in The Lancet, involved 1,385 patients across Australia, the Czech Republic, New Zealand, Poland, Sri Lanka, the UK, and the US. The study compared standard and half-dose forms of GMRx2 against dual combinations of its component drugs. Results indicated that GMRx2 was significantly more effective in controlling blood pressure.
Professor Anthony Rodgers, Senior Professorial Fellow at The George Institute and Chief Medical Officer at George Medicines, stated, "These findings, now published in The Lancet, provide robust evidence for the potential of GMRx2 to transform hypertension management globally."
Addressing a Global Health Crisis
Hypertension, a leading preventable cause of heart disease and death, affects over 4 million Australians and 1.2 billion adults worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). A mere 1 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events by approximately 2%.
GMRx2, developed by George Medicines, combines telmisartan, amlodipine, and indapamide in ultra-low, low, and standard doses. Recent trials in Australia and other countries have demonstrated that GMRx2 is significantly more effective than standard treatments in controlling blood pressure.
Global Trial Results
Dr. Paul Whelton, Chair of the trial’s steering committee and President of the World Hypertension League, commented, "This trial, conducted across seven countries and diverse populations, demonstrates that GMRx2 provides significantly better blood pressure control compared to dual combinations while maintaining an excellent safety profile."
Data published in JACC showed that GMRx2 triple quarter and half doses both delivered significant blood pressure reductions compared to placebo. A trial published in JAMA, involving around 300 Black African participants with uncontrolled hypertension in Nigeria, found that GMRx2 helped 62% of patients control their blood pressure, compared to 28% with standard care.
Future Implications
As George Medicines seeks regulatory approval for GMRx2, there is optimism that this innovative treatment will soon be available to improve the lives of millions globally. Dr Stephen Thompson, co-founder and Managing Partner of Brandon Capital, highlighted the potential impact of GMRx2 in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where hypertension is prevalent but access to care is limited.
