Novartis' Tekturna and Diovan work in synergy

Swiss drug major Novartis says that results from a new study show that patients taking two of its cardiovascular medicines - the recently US-approved drug Tekturna (aliskiren) and the leading therapy Diovan (valsartan) - experienced greater reductions in blood pressure levels than those using either agent alone.

Findings from the 1,800 patient trial, which were presented at the American College of Cardiology's 56th scientific sessions, held in New Orleans, also found that those on both Tekturna and Diovan reached their treatment goal compared to either drug alone.

Half of the participants in the eight-week trial taking both Tekturna and Diovan saw a reduction in blood pressure to the target of 140/90mmHg (systolic/diastolic pressure), higher levels than those seen in patients taking either of the medicines alone. Failure to properly control high blood pressure, also called hypertension, can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, Novartis noted.