An announcement has been made by Daiichi Sankyo UK that the first three-in-one bill (Sevikar HCT) to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) has been launched. In the UK, approximately 8.5 million individuals are affected with hypertension. As symptoms are rarely clear, the condition is known as the “silent killer.” Hypertension is the most prevalent cause of stroke if left untreated or unmanaged.

Nearly 2 million people in the UK currently take three or more pills in order to treat their condition, although 80% do not take their pills as directed by their doctor, or throw them away. If patients suffering with hypertension take their medication as directed by their doctor it is significantly easier to control.

The new 3-in-1 pill reduces the number of medications patients with hypertension need to take.

Dr. Sharlin Ahmed Research Liaison Officer at The Stroke Association, explained:

“High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor for stroke and in fact 40% of all strokes could be avoided if more people took steps to control their blood pressure through healthy lifestyle changes or medication.

Many people with high blood pressure are required to take multiple pills every day to reduce their blood pressure which can in turn reduce their risk of stroke, calculating when each pill needs to be taken can often be confusing. Combining the pills into one could make taking the medication much simple. However, it’s important to note that this pill might not be suitable for everyone and it may have side effects so every patient should be assessed and treated on an individual basis.”

In the UK, one person every five minutes suffers a stroke. In addition, stroke is the third most prevalent cause of death in the country. Each year stroke costs the NHS (National Health Service) an estimated £2.8 billion and an estimated £7 billion to the English economy.

According to a Cochrane review, it is estimated that enhancing medication compliance might have a more significant impact on clinical health outcomes than improved treatments. In order to ensure that patients are prescribed the combination that’s right for them, Sevikar HCT is available in five, tailored doses.

Written by Grace Rattue