Novartis AG said Monday the European Commission has approved Rasitrio, a blood pressure treatment that combines three drugs into one pill.
The Swiss drugmaker said Rasitrio combines Rasilez, which inhibits an enzyme produced by the kidneys that can narrow blood vessels; amlodipine, which relaxes blood vessel walls; and hydrochlorothiazide, which increases sodium chloride and water excretion. The medicines lower blood pressure by helping blood flow more easily.
A statement from Novartis said most people need several medications to control high blood pressure, and simplifying the treatment is a key to improving patient compliance and outcomes.
The pill is already approved in the United States under the name Amturnide.