The randomization of 120 volunteer subjects with stable essential hypertension at 16 clinical centers in the US was initiated in May this year, and results are anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2006.
Currently, the only treatment for the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis is the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, NSAIDs are known to raise blood pressure and neutralize the blood pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensive medications to an extent that may contribute to an increased incidence of cardiovascular events.
“We see naproxcinod being an important treatment option for the whole osteoarthritis population, due to the propensity of NSAIDs to also trigger the onset of high blood pressure in patients with no previous history of hypertension and the high cardiovascular risk that applies generally to the elderly osteoarthritis population,” commented Staffan Stromberg, vice president of drug development at Nicox.